Faith, Mystery, and Perseverance: The Heart Behind Abbey Rhodes

Meet the Author

One of the most frequent questions readers ask me is: “What inspired Abbey Rhodes?” It’s a fair question, and the truth is, Abbey’s story has roots that go far deeper than mere imagination. Her story, and ultimately mine, comes from years of working in ministry, education, and counseling, and from witnessing firsthand the complicated relationship many people have with faith, the church, and their own identity.

I recently had a chance to explore these topics more deeply with Neil Haley on a special episode of The Neil Haley Show and my own podcast, The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes of that conversation.

Why Abbey Rhodes?

Abbey Rhodes, the central character in my mystery series beginning with Watergrave, was born out of an important and often overlooked truth: the church isn’t perfect. People often expect perfection from those in the church, but the reality is that churches are made up of people—real people who struggle, fail, and sometimes cause deep hurt.

Abbey’s journey embodies this conflict. She grew up in a strict missionary household with a controlling father whose harsh, judgmental views pushed her further from faith, rather than drawing her toward it. Her struggles reflect the real-life battles I’ve seen many people face—hurt, disappointment, and disillusionment with those claiming to represent God.

Through Abbey, my goal has been to create an authentic, relatable character who resonates with readers, especially those who have experienced similar hurt and confusion about faith and community.

Real-Life Inspiration and Authenticity

Every Abbey Rhodes mystery incorporates authentic struggles and scenarios I witnessed as a pastor and counselor. Whether it’s addressing moral hypocrisy, abuses of power, or social inequalities, my stories explore faith not as a simplistic answer, but as a complex, ongoing journey.

In our podcast conversation, Neil and I discussed how Abbey’s character isn’t static. Readers see her rise and fall, wrestling with personal tragedy, faith crises, and ultimately a journey toward healing. Abbey’s authenticity comes from acknowledging that faith isn’t always easy or linear. It’s messy, challenging, and sometimes deeply painful—but there’s always room for redemption.

Connecting With Readers Around the Globe

One of the most rewarding aspects of writing Abbey’s story has been hearing from readers around the world. From London to Germany, people are identifying with Abbey’s struggles and journey. Readers—believers and non-believers alike—have reached out, sharing that Abbey’s vulnerability and honesty resonate deeply.

Through Abbey’s journey, my hope is to normalize conversations about faith struggles, doubt, and the complexities of human relationships within religious communities. If Abbey’s experiences can open the door for readers to talk openly and honestly about these difficult topics, then the novels have accomplished their true purpose.

Perseverance and the Realities of Writing

The journey to success as an author isn’t easy—it’s a long road filled with obstacles, critiques, and setbacks. In the podcast, Neil and I talked candidly about the need for perseverance, especially in the face of rejection or criticism. Writing and sharing stories requires courage, humility, and thick skin.

When I started writing, I naively expected instant success. Over time, I learned the value of editing, critique, and continuous improvement. Writing isn’t just about creating; it’s about refining, polishing, and sometimes painfully letting go of parts of the story that don’t serve the greater narrative.

Currently, I’m reviewing the screenplay adaptation of Watergrave, a new and exciting milestone for Abbey Rhodes. As an author, adapting my work for film has taught me even more about storytelling, discipline, and the art of refining what matters most.

The Bigger Picture: A New Platform for Ministry

Though I stepped down from pastoral ministry, my writing has opened doors to a larger, global platform—one that allows me to reach far beyond the walls of a single church community. Abbey’s story is resonating with people from all walks of life, and through this, I’ve discovered that ministry can happen in many forms. Writing has become my new pulpit, and storytelling is my new way of sharing faith, hope, and healing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on your own journey—whether it involves faith, identity, or creative expression—remember this: persistence and authenticity matter. Abbey Rhodes’ journey isn’t easy, and neither is ours. But with honesty, courage, and perseverance, we can face our struggles and find hope and healing together.

I invite you to join Abbey on her continuing journey through mystery, redemption, and truth. Let her story encourage you as it encourages readers worldwide, reminding us all that we are never truly alone.

To stay connected, learn more about upcoming novels, or join the conversation, visit my website at mitchellskarnesauthor.com.

Let’s continue the journey together.

— Mitchell S. Karnes