In this moving episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, we’re joined by award-winning author and missionary Elizabeth Musser, whose powerful new novel, From the Valley We Rise, explores themes of faith, forgiveness, and finding beauty among the ruins. Elizabeth shares her incredible journey from writing poetry at age six to serving over 40 years in missions in France, and how God wove her love for storytelling and service together in the most unexpected ways.

We dive deep into the inspiration behind her newest historical romance, set during the lesser-known Allied invasion of Provence in WWII. With rich historical detail, complex characters, and not one, but two deeply moving love stories, this book is a beautiful reflection of Isaiah 61 and God’s ability to rebuild what’s been devastated.

If you’ve ever struggled with brokenness, regret, or feeling disqualified, this conversation will uplift your spirit and remind you of the redeeming power of grace.

Listen to the episode here.

Meet Elizabeth Musser

Elizabeth Musser writes “entertainment with a soul” from her writing chalet (a toolshed) outside Lyon, France. A Carol Award winner and Christy Award and Georgia Author of the Year finalist, Elizabeth’s critically acclaimed novels have been translated into multiple languages and have been international bestsellers. The Swan House was named one of Georgia’s Top Ten Novels of the Past 100 Years. By Way of the Moonlight was a Publishers Weekly Top Ten Pick in Religion and Spirituality. Elizabeth and her husband, Paul, have worked with the nonprofit One Collective for over forty years.

Visit Elizabeth’s Website

Follow Elizabeth

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Bible Verse for Encouragement

Isaiah 61:4 (NKJV)
“And they shall rebuild the old ruins,
They shall raise up the former desolations,
And they shall repair the ruined cities,
The desolations of many generations.”

Elizabeth Musser’s New Book: From the Valley We Rise

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Loyalty during Peril
In the heart of war-torn France, Isabelle Seauve’s resolve is tested after her father sacrifices his life to protect her involvement in the French Resistance. Heartbroken, Isabelle becomes more dedicated to hiding Jewish children in and near the village of Sisteron despite the growing danger when she discovers a traitor within the Resistance ranks.

Truth amid Deception
As the shadow of betrayal looms, Isabelle’s world collides with that of US Army Chaplain Peter Christensen, who carries emotional scars from his first position in Kentucky and his service in North Africa. Together, they face the brutal reality of war as the second D-Day–the Allied invasion of Provence–unfolds.

Bravery through Trial
Fifteen-year-old René Amblard narrowly escapes a devastating German attack that claims the lives of his mother and their fellow Maquis fighters. With a Jewish orphan girl at his side, René seeks out his cousin, Isabelle, for refuge while he contemplates revenge.

When the bombs of Operation Dragoon begin to fall, this unlikely group of heroes must find freedom in their souls before they can rebuild what has been destroyed.

💞 Tropes in From the Valley We Rise

• Wartime Romance


• Slow Burn


• Redemption Arc


• Found Family


• Grumpy Meets Sunshine (Peter & Isabelle)