Their storytelling reflects decades of pastoral ministry, theological study, and a shared commitment to Scripture and spiritual formation.

Both are graduates of the University of Minnesota. Dell holds both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He served congregations in Minnesota, Iowa, Norway (ministry exchange), and Florida. Diane has partnered alongside him in ministry for over forty years, leading studies, mentoring women, and walking with others in faith.

Their love for the global Church and diverse cultures has shaped both their lives and their writing. One formative chapter came during a year in Larvik, Norway, with their three children. Now grown, those children have families of their own—including Diane and Dell’s grandchildren who are older than their children were during that unforgettable year abroad.

In 2015, a visit to Ephesus sparked the idea for the trilogy, bringing together their love of history, Scripture, and storytelling. Their novels invite readers into a richly imagined world of early Christianity—faithful to the biblical record and alive with human struggle, hope, and grace.

Their greatest hope is that these stories will serve as a legacy for their family and an invitation to all readers—young and old—to open the Bible with fresh eyes and a deep desire to know the heart of God.

They live in the United States and enjoy time with their family, good coffee, and honest conversations about faith and life. To connect or learn more, visit ddshiell.com.