Author Tim Shoemaker led the last writing conference I attended. In addition to mentoring budding writers, Tim writes books that especially appeal to middle grade boys. Since I appreciate his passion for writing quality books written from a Christian worldview, I decided to interview him about his newest release, Every Hidden Thing.

On Amazon, you delivered a great hook–Living with the mystery is killing Parker. But learning the truth is about to get deadly. Tell us about the title and the plot.

Tim: I love the “creepy truth” in the Bible verse found in Ecclesiastes 12:14—which is where I got the title for the book.  “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”

The book is about Parker Buckman. He loves his new home in Rockport, Massachusetts. But strange things have been happening ever since Devin Cotsakis’ funeral.  A mysterious figure has been stalking the town and a series of break-ins leaves everyone on edge. Parker’s new friend Ella is just as convinced as her grandmother that it’s all the work of a ghost, and they could lose their home in Rockport if the stalker doesn’t stop. Parker wants to help Ella, which means facing this mystery head-on. Parker is no believer in ghosts, but whoever—or whatever is behind the break-ins is just as terrorizing. Parker believes God knows every hidden thing, but He seems to be in no hurry to reveal the truth!

How did you research the setting?

Tim: As a boy, my dad spent part of his childhood in Rockport. My parents took me there when I was ten, and I’ve gone back dozens of times since. When thinking of a place to set Every Hidden Thing, Rockport came to mind immediately. The coastline is gorgeous, and soooo mysterious … a perfect setting for a story filled with adventure and suspense. You’re going love your time in Rockport—even if it’s only while you read the book!

Why does your book appeal to both general and Christian audiences?

Tim:  Readers love a great, believable story—with characters who are real. And there’s a great diversity in the characters. One is serious about his faith … others have no faith. I write clean. No language. No romance. If you write a great story, those things aren’t needed. I don’t write down to the reader, and am careful not to let preachy, hokey, or agenda-driven content into the book. Readers resonate with a story like that, regardless of whether they come from a background of faith or not.

Are there more books in the series?

Tim: Book 3 in the High Water series, The Deep End, comes out in Spring, 2023.  Book 4, The Second Storm, is in the editing process. I’m starting Book 5 now.

Where can readers find your books?

Tim: Amazon, or any other bookstore you may prefer. And after you read the book, do an Amazon rating or review as well, okay?

Thanks, Tim!

Lori Z. Scott

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