America Tonight with Kate Delaney: Joanne ‘Gram’ Radke’s “The Sanctuary: Romance, Murder & Mystery”

by ReadersMagnet | March 10, 2025 | radio interview, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

A prolific author and passionate writer, Joanne ‘Gram’ Radke recently guested on the syndicated radio program America Tonight with Kate Delaney to share insights about her career, books, and the exciting journey of co-writing The Sanctuary: Romance, Murder & Mystery, a captivating romantic mystery novel.

The interview highlighted the collaborative writing process between Radke and her late co-author, Shirley Smith. It offered a heartfelt look at Radke’s versatile career as an author, pastor, and mentor.

In the interview, Radke shared that writing was a passion she discovered early in life. Her creativity bloomed even in her youth. “Even as a kid, I loved writing,” she said. “I’ve written lots of poems and short stories.”

Writing was not just a hobby for her but a calling that eventually led to a career filled with fun and meaningful projects.

Radke’s most recent book, The Sanctuary, written in collaboration with Shirley Smith, is a delightful mix of romance and mystery, filled with colorful characters, heartwarming moments, and thrilling twists. The novel takes place in a picturesque Victorian house, which two childhood friends decide to transform into a bed and breakfast.

Radke explained, “Sharon and Janice grew up in a small town where a beautiful house caught their eye. After years apart, they reunite when Janice’s parents pass away, and Sharon became a widow, leading the women to buy the house and turn it into The Sanctuary.”

What starts as a journey of healing and renovation soon intertwines with a series of unsolved murders, ultimately drawing in an undercover CIA agent. Radke quipped, “There’s a little suspicion – why is he always with the sheriff? But there’s romance too as things get complicated.”

The lighthearted mystery unfolds alongside blossoming romance as the two leads, Sharon and Janice, fall for their respective love interests of Jason and Raymond.

Radke fondly recalls how her co-author’s keen eye for detail brought the book to life, “Shirley was a decorator, and there are wonderful descriptions of each room, beautifully decorated.” She even adds a playful touch about a dog named Casey, inspired by Shirley’s son’s pet. “Casey shows up in The Sanctuary, adding a fun element to the story,” Radke smiles.

However, the joy of working on The Sanctuary was bittersweet, as Radke shared that Shirley passed away twelve years ago before seeing the book in print. “Shirley never got to see her creation published, but her children have and that’s the good thing,” Radke said.

Radke also emphasized how the collaboration process was enriching and filled with fun brainstorming sessions over lunches and, at times, difficult decisions. “It was just fun and enjoyable. Picking each other’s brains and asking, ‘What should I do now?’ was part of the process,” she says.

Radke’s passion for writing isn’t limited to mysteries and romance. As an author with an impressive portfolio, she has also written devotionals, children’s books, and financial advice guides. Her first book, Why Is My House Always a Mess?, is a devotional centered around home organization and decluttering becoming an instant hit. She is following that success with Why Are My Finances Always a Mess?, a practical guide to budgeting and saving, and then Why Are My Relationships Always a Mess?, drawing on her extensive experience as a pastor, and counselor for over forty years.

The interview also highlights her creativity in children’s literature, notably the Jessica series, which features a young girl learning essential life lessons through imaginative adventures. Radke’s heartfelt approach to children’s books is evident as she describes Jessica the Dreamer and its sequels. “Jessica shows kids that they can be anything they want to be with God’s help, Radke said. “It’s a fun, whimsical way to encourage kids to dream.” The books are filled with colorful characters, delightful situations, and valuable life lessons, making them entertaining and educational.

Radke’s versatility as a writer is undeniable. Whether crafting a cozy mystery, offering spiritual guidance, or helping children navigate the complexities of life, she does so with joy and commitment. Through it all, she remains passionate about creating works that readers can enjoy, learn from, and grow with.

Ultimately, Joanne Radke’s interview on America Tonight was an insightful look into her prolific career and a reminder of the joy that can come from pursuing one’s passions. Her lighthearted approach to writing and her depth of experience and expertise offer readers a wealth of stories that entertain, inspire, and uplift.

Discover this gripping romantic mystery novel available online on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and ReadersMagnet Bookstore. Learn more about Joanne ‘Gram’ Radke and her works by visiting her website at www.joanneradkebooks.com.

Listen to the full interview onReadersMagnet’s official YouTube channel.