In this audio clip, Randy Alcorn answers the question, "How do you decide what books to write next?"

In this audio clip, Randy Alcorn talks about his novel Safely Home, and the painting that inspired him to write it.

One of the most frequent questions I get asked on my Facebook page is, “Will there be another Ollie Chandler story, a follow up to Deception?” 

When I wrote Deception, the spiritual themes are interwoven into the central plot, the murder mystery. Ollie’s recognition that everything is not as it appears applies not only to the murder, but to the larger issues of his life.

I like reading murder mysteries—particularly the Nero Wolfe books by Rex Stout. I love Sherlock Holmes. In fact, every chapter of Deception starts with a great quote from a Holmes story. It was fun matching those with the contents of particular chapters. Many people enjoy murder mysteries, so there’s potential for a wide audience.

I never create any mental pictures that could tempt, as I have strong convictions against that.

In this 20 minute interview, Randy talks with interviewer Wayne Shepherd about the Courageous movie and novel.

I seek to read and think and use my imagination, and improve my writing skills. I ask God for ideas and help, and I sense Him answering those prayers. Whether we build or draw or fix things or make a home for our families, God wants us to yield our gifts to Him, and depend on Him for the next step, even the next breath. I don't always succeed, but that's what I seek to do in my writing.

Books in a series and stand-alones each have their advantage. I like the continuity of characters in a series, so you don't have to reinvent every one each time.