Religion / Nonfiction / Christian Living
Date Published: July 15, 2025
Publisher: Lucid Books Publishing
Interview with Courtney McElvain
How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?
I’m really a baby author, so this was the first time I paid any attention to what my process even was. At first, I thought I’d write in a neat, linear fashion, start to finish, chapter by chapter. The reality was very different. It felt more like a swirl of ideas that surfaced at the most unexpected times. I had to learn to capture them right away, because if I didn’t, they’d be gone forever and so would the book that eventually ended up in my hands.
What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?
This is such a good question. For me, I think I first realized the power of language in the way words could shift your entire being, whether it was encouragement from a teacher, a Bible verse spoken at the right time, or even the sting of criticism. Words land deeply. They can either lift someone up or cut them down. That awareness has stayed with me and made me want to use words that give life.
What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?
My best time to write is between six in the morning and late morning. But right now, that’s also when I’m getting my kids off to school and leading our wealth management firm. I’m not willing to give up those priorities. So for this season, I write on weekends while the house is quiet and everyone else is still sleeping. It means my books take longer to finish, but I’m okay with that. Writing is a calling, but so is my family, and I want to be present for both.
Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know?
I’m an Army veteran. Most people know me as a wealth manager and author, but not many know about my time spent in the Army as a Korean Linguist.
If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?
If I could go back to my younger self, I’d tell her to write sooner and more often. Not for a grade, not for an assignment, but just to practice putting thoughts into words. Journaling, even writing down prayers. I think it would have helped me discover my voice much earlier. It took me a long time to realize I was ‘allowed’ to write.
What is the biggest surprise that you experienced after becoming a writer?
The biggest surprise was that what started as just one book idea has turned into a passion-driven writing practice for my daily life. Now the book ideas keep flowing in, and I’m starting to believe that I can call myself an author.
Could you tell us a bit about your most recent book and why it is a must-read?
My book really leans into the reality that faith doesn’t always come easy. We all walk through seasons of fear, difficulty, and conflict, and it’s in those moments that we have to learn what it truly means to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. I wanted to make it both practical and spiritual giving readers simple tools to quiet anxiety, let go of self-limiting beliefs, and step into a life of deeper meaning. At its core, the book is about paying attention to who God is and how He is moving in your story—so you can discover His purpose for your life. That kind of discovery changes everything: the way you see yourself, and the way you love others.
An Army veteran and recipient of the Iron Soldier award, Courtney brings a strong sense of dedication and purpose to all she does. Her deep understanding of biblical principles, shaped by years of study and conversations with theologians and faith leaders, informs her thoughtful approach to life’s big questions.
This is her debut book, written to inspire readers to discover God’s work in their lives. Courtney is currently working on her next book in the series, Invest Into Meaning. She lives in Far Northern California with her husband and two children.
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