Today, we are thrilled to be joined by Nicholas Sparks, a renowned author whose novels like The Notebook and A Walk to Remember have touched hearts around the world. While many know him for his captivating love stories, few realize that Nicholas’ journey to writing was born out of personal setbacks and unexpected moments of faith. He’ll let us in on his latest book, Counting Miracles, ​​a powerfully emotional novel about wondering if we can change—or even make our peace with—the path we've taken.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Mattie Jackson Smith—author, speaker, and daughter of country music legend Alan Jackson—as she shares about the process of grieving her husband, Ben, and the identity loss that came with it. As Mattie struggled to trust God in the face of unimaginable suffering, she watched as God turned her life story around in a way she never could have imagined. 

Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:

Jesus Calling Podcast

Jesus Calling

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Jesus Listens

Past interview: Willie Robertson

Upcoming interview: Dr. Sarita Lyons

Jesus Calling commemorative edition

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Nicholas Sparks 

The Notebook 

A Walk to Remember 

Counting Miracles

Notre Dame

Book of Job

www.nicholassparks.com

Other Jesus Calling interviews about forgiveness

Mattie Jackson Smith

Alan Jackson

Mattie’s first interview on the Jesus Calling Podcast

John 11:35 NIV

www.mattiejackson.net

Through the Valley of Grief

Other Jesus Calling interviews about making peace with our circumstances

Interview Quotes:

“I’ve learned a couple of things about myself [while becoming a writer]. Number one, that I had it in me to finish a story once I started, and number two, there were parts of telling a story that I really enjoyed.” - Nicholas Sparks  

“It's the nature of life for challenges to happen. And I think in the end, what is most important to God is that we choose to still believe.” - Nicholas Sparks

“All of a sudden a widow