Janet Joanou Weiner

Author Bio:

Hi! I'm Janet...


I grew up in southern California and studied French against my 6th-grade teacher's advice that I'd never use it.

I’ve now lived in France for over twenty years. First in the Alps, then several wonderful years in the center of Paris.

Currently, my husband and I live in St. Hippolyte du Fort in southern France, where we've established a Christian training center, YWAM Bridges of Life.

We’ve also lived in Amsterdam, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Kona, Hawaii. For my work in Christian ministry, I’ve had the joy of traveling to over forty countries. Never a dull moment!

Despite missing our four children and grandchildren, living in the US, I love my life! I delight in the endless opportunities to discover past stories of depth and inspiration while soaking up the beauty, culture, and history all around.


I’ve dabbled in writing over the years, but never found the time to pen a novel. After a significant birthday a few years ago, I decided it was now or never.


Based on actual events, my historical novels take place in my village and home, the 500-year-old Château de Planque


I love discussing Huguenot history and the book's themes of God's goodness and presence through dark days. Podcast, book club, homeschool group...I'd love to talk with you.

Shining Bright, The Huguenot Resistance Series, Book 3

How can a young woman with disability contribute to the French Resistance? Can she survive Nazi contempt? Jeanine Bourguet resides in a château in the south of France, but her life is no fairy tale. A repressive grandmother and a wheelchair have long impeded her desire to make significant contributions…

The Light Shines Through, The Huguenot Resistance Series, Book 2

An unyielding faith collides with a reign of persecution. After a fearful Huguenot’s fragile world collapses at her parents’ arrest, will her unfurling destiny fulfill their legacy of defiance? When soldiers arrest Suzanne Lacombe’s parents during a forbidden Protestant gathering, her hope of…

Though Darkness Descend, The Huguenot Resistance Series, Book 1

With persecution of the Huguenots intensifying in 17th century France, what will be the cost of her unbelief? Jeanne Tessier is unwilling to die for a faith she doesn’t possess. Where was God when she desperately needed him? In her darkest hour, he didn’t seem to hear or care. Until now, Jeanne…