Heidi Gray McGill: Spotlight on Desire of my Heart & a Giveaway
Please enjoy this post by Heidi Gray McGill about her excellent Historical novel, Desire of My Heart. Be sure to comment below by January 21 for a chance to win a copy! (Paperback for US winner OR a $15 Amazon gift card for an international winner)
Welcome to the Hope-filled Fiction blog, Heidi, and thanks for sharing about your amazing novel and offering a giveaway!
Discover the Heartwarming Inspiration Behind Desire of My Heart
What makes a story truly unforgettable? Is it the characters whose struggles feel like your own, the plot twist that sucks the air from your lungs, or the themes of hope and redemption that linger in your soul? In Desire of My Heart, you’ll find all this and more woven into a narrative inspired by a remarkable woman—my mother, Ardis.
My mother wasn’t just the muse for Grammie in this story; she was Grammie. Her steadfast faith and infectious joy left a legacy that continues to inspire. Ardis had a way of infusing life with prayer and grace, even in the most challenging moments, always turning to God’s Word for strength. Her quiet wisdom shaped the character of Grammie, who anchors the story with her unwavering belief that God’s plan is always at work—even when we can’t see it.
Grammie’s presence in Desire of My Heart offers both comfort and conviction. She’s a gentle reminder that God’s guidance is as close as an open Bible. Her scenes are filled with wisdom, her actions with love, and her words with profound truth, embodying the very heartbeat of the story.
Set in 1858 Missouri, Rachel’s journey begins at a crossroads. A strong orphan with a quiet strength, she faces the daunting task of protecting her younger brother. Unexpectedly thrust into a marriage of convenience with Melvin Trexler, a grieving widower with two children, Rachel finds herself on a path she didn’t choose. As Grammie might say, “God has ordained our lives from the very beginning,” Rachel must trust in His plan—even when it seems impossible.
Desire of My Heart reveals the beauty of second chances and the transformative power of faith. It’s a story of finding family where you least expect it and redemption that flourishes even in life’s most challenging seasons.
Rachel and Melvin’s journey will speak to your heart if you’ve ever wondered how God can turn brokenness into something beautiful. This story invites you to experience trials that turn into triumphs, love that grows from ashes, and hope that lights the way forward.
Pick up Desire of My Heart today and discover how God’s hand works in life’s most unexpected moments. You’ll find inspiration not only in Rachel’s journey but also in the timeless wisdom of Grammie—because her faith, much like my mother’s, reminds us all to lean into God’s provision with trust and joy.
I love hearing about the inspiration behind Grammie’s character. And I loved this book! If you’re interested in reading my five-star review, you can FIND IT HERE.
I listened to Heidi’s book on audio, and you can, too!
PURCHASE IT HERE or listen to it for free ON YOUTUBE. The courtesy of a comment, liking, sharing, and subscribing to Heidi’s channel is always appreciated.
Comment on @HeidiGrayMcGill’s spotlight on #DesireofmyHeart by 1/21 for a chance to win a copy. (Gift card if international winner) #giveaway #HistoricalFiction
TweetJoin the conversation. Do you like stories with strong spiritual elements? Are you a historical fiction fan? What’s your favorite time period to read about? What questions or comments do you have for Heidi?
Be sure to comment below by January 21 to enter the giveaway! (US winner will receive a paperback of Heidi’s book. International winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card)
Desire of my Heart by Heidi Gray McGill
Click the book cover for purchase link
𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆, 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒋𝒐𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈.
In the heart of 1858 Missouri, Rachel’s world is a whirlwind of uncertainty. But amidst the darkness of her circumstances, she clings to the promise of joy that God whispers to her soul.
Facing the grim reality of being sold off into marriage as she ages out of the orphanage, Rachel refuses to accept her fate. With determination blazing in her heart, she hatches a daring plan with her beloved brother to escape the cruel grip of destiny.
Enter Melvin, a widower burdened with raising two young children alone. Desperate for help, he sees a glimmer of hope in Rachel—a chance for a new beginning through a marriage of convenience.
As God intertwines their lives, the five of them embark on a journey that transcends the bounds of blood, forming an unlikely family bound by love, resilience, and unwavering faith. Through trials and triumphs, they forge a home where hope blooms even in the harshest of circumstances.
But just when they think they’ve found their slice of heaven on Earth, tragedy strikes, threatening to shatter their newfound happiness. Yet, guided by the light of God’s love and surrounded by a steadfast community, they rise from the ashes stronger than ever before.
Rachel’s adventure unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous era, where every twist and turn brings her closer to her heart’s desire. Yet, in her quest for love, purpose, and security, she discovers that God’s plans far surpass her wildest dreams.
Join Rachel on her breathtaking journey through the untamed landscapes of the past, where love, faith, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow illuminate even the darkest of nights.
In this powerful Christian historical fiction, award-winning author Heidi Gray McGill weaves an enthralling tale of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of God’s grace.
Heidi Gray McGill is a distinguished author known for her impactful Christian fiction. She blends timeless themes of faith, hope, and love with a touch of humor and depth. Despite the challenges of blindness, Heidi has written eight books, including her beloved Discerning God’s Best series, which showcases God’s provision and guidance through richly crafted characters and settings.
Her writing journey began in March 2020, but her passion for connecting with people was honed as the founder and director of an ESL program, where she helped students achieve their dream of U.S. citizenship. Heidi lives near Charlotte, NC, with her husband of over thirty years. She enjoys family time, cooking, playing games, and finding inspiration in everyday moments.
Heidi invites you to stay connected and explore the stories that inspire her heartfelt writing. As a special gift, she’s offering her free prequel, Deep in My Heart, available in both eBook and audiobook formats. This captivating journey from South Carolina to the Midwest sets the stage for Desire of My Heart.
VISIT HEIDI’S WEBSITE to join her mailing list and embark on a path of faith, hope, and inspiration alongside Heidi.
Connect with Heidi: Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / BookBub / Goodreads / X / Amazon
Please share Heidi’s spotlight on social media to help spread the word about her books!
If you missed Laura DeNooyer’s interview last week, FIND IT HERE.
Deena Adams
As a Jesus girl for more than thirty years, Deena Adams understands how important hope is to daily life, which fuels her passion to inspire others through hope-filled fiction based on true to life stories. She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and is a multi-award-winning writer, an active ACFW member, and ACFW Virginia president. Connect with Deena through her website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
56 Comments
Deena Adams
Due to the first winner chosen not responding to my email, I’ve drawn another random winner. Congratulations to Dr. Janet L. Pierce, you’re our new winner! Please respond to my email within 3 days to claim your prize.
Cassie Larson
Grammie sounds like the most wonderful character! Can’t wait to read this book!
Deena Adams
Thanks for your comment, Cassie!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you, Cassie!
Lual Krautter
Hi! Would love to win a print copy! Thanks for the opportunity! God bless!
Deena Adams
Best of luck in the giveaway, Lual! Thanks for entering.
Heidi Gray McGill
You are most welcome, Lual.
Kay Enderlin
I would love to win this Fabulous copy of Heidi Gray McGill’ s book.
I follow her on her Facebook page
She writes books from the heart. Her writing stays with you for a long time. thank you for the opportunity to win this generous gift.
Deena Adams
Hi, Kay. This is the only book of Heidi’s I’ve read so far, but I’ll definitely be reading more! She definitely writes from the heart.
Heidi Gray McGill
Kay, you always know how to fill my cup. Thank you.
Mrs Brent Magers
Looks good. Thank you for the opportunity.
Deena Adams
You’re welcome. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for entering!
Deena Adams
Congratulations, Mrs. Brent Magers, you’re the winner of Heidi’s book! Be sure to follow the instructions in the email I sent you to claim your prize.
Samantha
I would love to receive a physical copy of this book! I listened to it recently and DOMH made me think soooo hard about “am I doing God’s will, or am I forcing his hand.” This book was a huge blessing!
Deena Adams
Hi, Samantha. I couldn’t agree more. I love Christian Fiction that challenges my faith, and Heidi’s book certainly did!
Heidi Gray McGill
Oh, Samantha! What a thoughtful comment. I appreciate you sharing this with me.
Faith D. Cox
I love the story of your mother being the inspiration of this story! Even through the messes of life, God has a plan. It’s great to connect with a fellow Christian writer. Thank you for the opportunity to receive a paperback copy of your work Desire of my Heart.
Heidi Gray McGill
Faith, what a lovely comment. Thank you. And it is a pleasure to connect with you as well.
Deena Adams
Thanks so much for your comments, Faith. I appreciate you reading and joining the conversation.
Dr. Janet L. Pierce
I loved the description of action and I am curious how Grammie faced the life changes she had to endure. It definately makes you want to read more.
Deena Adams
I hope you get to read Heidi’s book, Janet. I think you’ll love it!
Lisa
This book looks amazing!!! I definitely want to read it!
Deena Adams
Thanks for joining the conversation, Lisa!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you, Lisa!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for these encouraging words, Janet. Grammie is a strong woman of God you instantly fall in love with.
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you, Deena, for this blessing! I look forward to connecting with your readers.
Deena Adams
The pleasure is mine, Heidi!
Teresa Bass
Sounds like a fantastic read!
Deena Adams
It is, Teresa! You’d love the spiritual storyline. The characters show such strong faith. Thanks for reading and commenting!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you, Teresa. There is a sample chapter on Amazon if you would like to sample my writing.
Kelley
Looking forward to reading this book!
Deena Adams
I hope you love it, Kelley!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for entering, Kelley!
Danielle Hull
I haven’t read anything by Heidi yet! I love historical fiction! WWII has been my favorite, but I have been branching out. I love spiritual themes, that’s why I read Christian fiction – hope in Jesus!
Deena Adams
Amen, Danielle! Heidi’s book is rich in spiritual content. You should definitely give it a try.
Heidi Gray McGill
Danielle, I hope you’ll give my writing a try. Download the free book offered on my website when you sign up for my newsletter to get started.
Dana McReynolds
Historical fiction is my favorite! Beautiful cover!
Deena Adams
I think you’ll love Heidi’s book when you get to read it, Dana!
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for that sweet compliment, Dana.
Mark Buzard
The book sounds like a great read.
I do like a spiritual element in a story, especially if it makes me think
My favorite historical era would probably be the Civil War
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for the courtesy of a reply, Mark. The third book in the series, Matters of the Heart is just after the civil war. It was a fun one to write.
Deena Adams
Hi, Mark. I love spiritual elements in the books I read, too, and Heidi’s is wonderful. I hope you’ll give it a try. My favorite historical era is also Civil War.
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for the compliment on the cover, Dana.
Jeanette Davis
Thank you for this post. It is always good to read and be inspired. Love finds a way and there is no greater love than that of our Father in Heaven who gave His only Son for our sns…I love to read this type of hope filled fiction because in this world we are all broken in one way or another…yet God is good and faithful to each of us! Thank you for this opportunity,
Deena Adams
You’re so right, Jeanette. Praise God for His great love and grace to all of us who are a broken mess. Thanks so much for reading Heidi’s interview and commenting!
(I deleted your other posts since you mentioned you couldn’t do so)
Lorraine Groom-Ashmore
I would love to receive a paperback copy of this book. I read an ecopy and I would love a physical copy. I am my church’s librarian and I would add it to our collection. Thank you for sharing the story behind this great book.
Deena Adams
Thanks for reading and joining the conversation, Lorraine! Isn’t it a great story?
Heidi Gray McGill
What a wonderful ministry! I’m thankful for our church library. Thank you for already reading!
Heidi Gray McGill
I completley agree, Jeanette. What a blessing to meet a fellow believer! Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
Sara Rosevear
Sounds like a read my mom and I would both love! Commenting to enter the contest
Heidi Gray McGill
It’s funny you should say that. I cannot tell you how many readers have let me know they sent the book to their mother after they read it because they knew she would enjoy it.
Deena Adams
Best of luck in the giveaway, Sara! Thanks for your comment.
Marilyn Rushing
Thank you! Would love to win & read your book.
Heidi Gray McGill
Thank you for commenting, Marilyn.
Deena Adams
I appreciate you entering the giveaway, Marilyn!