Picture a storyteller who swapped Air Force adventures for penning soulful Christian romances—meet Toni Shiloh! A Texas native now charming readers from Virginia, Toni crafts novels that weave faith, love, and redemption with a sprinkle of small-town warmth. Her journey from poet to award-winning author is as inspiring as the stories she tells, inviting readers into worlds where God’s goodness shines.
With a knack for heartfelt narratives, Toni’s books resonate with those craving romance rooted in spirituality. Her unique voice amplifies diverse characters, making her a standout in Christian fiction. Ready to dive into her story? Let’s explore how Toni Shiloh became a beloved name in contemporary romance.
The Making of Toni Shiloh
Born in Texas, Toni Shiloh’s early life was shaped by her service in the United States Air Force, where she met her husband. After numerous moves, she settled in Virginia, raising two boys while nurturing her creative spark. Initially a poet in high school, Toni’s passion for writing reignited during her bachelor’s in English in 2011. A creative writing teacher’s encouragement set her on a path to finish her first novel, A Life to Live, self-published in 2015. Her Air Force discipline and faith fueled her determination, turning her dream of storytelling into reality.
Toni Shiloh’s Unforgettable Stories
Toni’s novels are soulful blends of romance, faith, and cultural diversity, often set in vibrant, relatable settings. Her breakthrough, In Search of a Prince, a 2022 Christy Amplify Award winner, follows Brielle Adebayo, a teacher turned African princess navigating love and duty. Praised by Oprah Daily, it’s a royal romance with heart. To Win a Prince continues this saga, delving into redemption as disgraced heir Ekon Diallo finds purpose with fashion entrepreneur Iris Blakely.
You Make It Feel Like Christmas, a cozy holiday tale, captures the Lewis family’s warmth, blending small-town charm with big emotions. A Run at Love, a 2024 Booklist Top 10 Romance pick, gallops into the Kentucky Derby scene, where Piper McKinney risks her heart for her best friend. Toni’s style—rich with emotional depth, diverse casts, and faith-driven arcs—creates stories that feel like a warm hug, tackling themes like forgiveness and identity with grace.
Unlike typical lighthearted Christian fiction, Toni doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like racism or colonization, using her stories to foster empathy and connection. Her membership in the American Christian Fiction Writers and the Sisters of Faith collective underscores her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in the genre.
Why Toni Shiloh Matters
Toni Shiloh’s impact lies in her ability to diversify Christian fiction, a genre often dominated by white authors. By centering Black and multiracial characters, she reflects the vibrant body of Christ, reaching readers who crave representation. Her novels bridge cultural gaps, inviting conversations about faith and identity. Awards like the Holt Medallion and Selah Award finalists nod to her storytelling prowess, while her advocacy for BIPOC authors pushes publishing toward inclusivity.
Through her blog and social media, Toni connects with readers and authors, sharing sales, reviews, and her love for K-dramas and tea. Her work inspires readers to embrace God’s love and find joy in everyday moments, making her a beacon in contemporary romance.
- Key Works: In Search of a Prince, To Win a Prince, You Make It Feel Like Christmas, A Run at Love
- Awards: Christy Amplify Award (2022), Holt Medallion Finalist (2019, 2021), Selah Award Finalist (2020)
- Hobbies: Reading, watching K-dramas, making jewelry
Snag In Search of a Prince and dive into Toni Shiloh’s soulfully romantic world! Whether you’re a romance fanatic or a faith-driven reader, her stories promise heart, hope, and a touch of divine magic.