Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Randall.
Hi Ben, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey becoming a writer was not a revelatory event, but more a gentle nudging by God to put pen to paper. This was followed by several well-meaning, “in your face” confrontations by friends to complete what I had started years earlier.
The seeds for my first novel “Between the Lightning and the Thunder” were planted during an in-depth study of the biblical Book of James, and in particular the first verse, “James, a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
It struck me what a profound statement that is, possibly the greatest expression of faith in all the Bible. James, who thought his elder brother Jesus had lost his mind (Mark 3:20-21), now professes him to be Lord, the Messiah, the Son of God. What could have brought him to such a deep philosophical revelation? One that would not only change his life, but one he would willingly die for. This question would become inspiration for the first chapter of my book.
As can often happen, details and responsibilities of life stole my time and attention. My ink well dried up and my quill went into storage for decades, until a friend who had written a best seller titled “Choose Zoe,” encouraged me to attend a writer’s conference and submit my short story in an unpublished author’s contest. To my surprise, I won, and I was hooked. From there I teamed up with Brookstone Creative Group and produced my first novel. Although the sky didn’t open up and I didn’t hear the voice of God who would have sounded like Charleton Heston, I knew as I knew, writing was what God had for me in this final chapter of my life.
Now what? What do I write about? I didn’t have a clue until I visited Ernest Hemmingway’s home in Key West. Hanging over his desk was an old wooden plaque that read, “I write what I know.” That’s when the light came on. As I’ve heard it said, “The reason today I am old and wise is because God protected me when I was young and impulsive.” There’s a story there.
My years of experience as a father, police officer, army veteran, both police and prison chaplain, pastor and student of God’s Word, have provided me with the groundwork for further novels and stories that thus far have proven to be quite popular. This time as I spoke of the events, they would be molded by my faith, and the fictional works would hopefully point readers to look at their own lives and see God’s providential working.
My second book, “Three Gates to Hell,” traditionally published by Iron Stream Media Group was released in March 2024. My third book, “Innocence Sold” also in publication by Iron Stream Media, will be released in October 2025.
I am currently engaged in writing two more novels, another biblical fiction, and the final part of a suspense trilogy, that includes “Three Gates’” and “Innocence Sold.”
My first self-published work, “Between the Lightning and the Thunder,” is presently under contract with Enspire Media Group / Faith Street Productions in Los Angeles, to be made into a full-length feature film.
I never fail to ask myself how a kid who couldn’t read, dropped out of high school and went into the army, could have ever completed his education, gotten a degree from a prestigious university, and authored books that people actually want to read? My only answer is, “But God.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In 1966 I was 19 years old and told that the Army would probably not take me because I couldn’t read. I attempted to argue the point, but when a book was placed before me, it remained unread. The conflict in Vietnam was at its peak and recruitment was at a low point, so some limitations were overlooked. After I was discharged God put a brilliant woman in my life who brought me the instruction I required. Beyond my own personal limitations, I have had little in the way of roadblocks, restrictions, or struggles. I have been blessed to be in the right place, meet the right people, all at just the right time.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My buttons pop with pride for my three sons. They were wonderful boys, that have grown to be fine men, each uniquely gifted. My oldest son was a sought-after auto painter, who did specialized work on high-value custom cars. My second son is a recognized artist in New Orleans, receiving commissions from private parties, community leaders, state and national celebrities. My third son is a successful business manager, and TV screenwriter. I have much to be proud of, but these guys are at the top of the list.
I’m not sure what aspect of life you are referencing, but currently I am an associate pastor on staff at a wonderful church and oversee various ministries that allow me to draw upon my past experiences in both law enforcement and pastoral ministry. I devote a large segment of time to my writing, and of course, sharing life with my bride of 45 years is a top priority.
In my writings, I specialize in bringing to life the various personalities in such a way that others can see themselves as they move in and through the circumstances and daily lives of my main characters. The circumstances may be outside the reader’s scope of understanding, but hopefully the feelings that are generated as they read my work, open up new ways of seeing themselves, and with God’s help, perhaps come not only to a deeper understanding of God, but of themselves as well. I don’t want to leave out another key component of what I write, and that is to bring an element of entertainment to the reader.
What sets me apart is I have had the privilege/opportunity to have many life experiences others may not have had, from early childhood abandonment, war, law enforcement in multiple facets, pastoring, building churches, and numerous other endeavors. As an author, I am able to draw upon these experiences, and approach many of them with a totally different perspective. In other words, I wasn’t weaned on a church pew, and have experienced life from both sides. This can be invaluable as an author.
What I’m known for is a difficult question to answer, but from what I have been told by quite a few readers, is that they are quickly engaged in the novels and find themselves submerged in the story, almost in a first person perspective. That is humbling to say the least, but every author’s hope. If the reader isn’t hooked within the first few pages, they will lay your book down, and few will ever pick it back up.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Before I became a Christian, I was very much an introvert. I preferred observing far above participation when it came to social interaction. I could not speak in front of a group and much preferred being on the sidelines. If we were going to a party, event, or just dinner, my wife would share with the hosts that I was not antisocial, just quiet.
Pricing:
- The prices of my books vary depending on where they are purchased.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bfrandall.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.f.randall/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenFRandall
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl0REhIWuOy3uEBxBguUNMA/videos?view=0&sort=dd&shelf_id=0
