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WITH HEARTS AND HYMNS AND VOICES By Pam Rhodes ISBN 978-0-8254-975-3 Kregel
Publications: Monarch Books Review by Cynthia Hickey
The BBC is looking for the perfect Suffolk village to
host Palm Sunday's "Songs of Praise" program. They settle on Sandford, and the peaceful village is turned upside down. Many
are excited for the opportunity to feature their hometown, others fear the disruption and do everything possible to throw
a wrench into the plans. Until they see the progress being made and how the program touches hearts.
From the
vicar Clive, to an angry teen with the voice of an angel, Sanford grabs the hearts of readers and draws them into the quirkiness
of small village life. With a roller-coaster of emotion, the reader sees into the soul of a small English village and emerges
changed.
WITH HEARTS AND HYMNS AND VOICES is the story of togetherness, faith, and forgiveness. High on the faith
scale.
MISSING MABEL Hometown Mysteries By Nancy Mehl ISBN 978-1-60260-398-1 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Hilde felt called to prepare the hair of the departed for their funeral.
She works for several funeral homes in Wichita. While on the job, she enters the wrong room and finds a woman different from
the one she came to prepare. She moves on with a shrug. But when the woman with the same name does require her services, Hilde
realizes this woman is not the same woman she'd stumbled onto by accident, not the same woman at all. Her attempts to discover
the truth lead to new friendships, good advice and danger she never saw coming.
A fun, romance mystery with big enough print not to strain the eyes and
with characters I hope to meet again. I kept reading just “one more chapter.”
Faith element: medium
ANGEL SONG By Sheila Walsh & Kathryn Cushman ISBN 978-1-59554-685-2 Thomas
Nelson Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Annie Fletcher returns to Charleston to celebrate with her sister, Sarah,
as Sarah is getting her master's degree. Tragedy strikes and Annie is left alone with her sister's last haunting words. As
Annie heads to her childhood home to make arrangements, she is thrust into the famous southern hospitality of neighbors. Even
more confusing is the boy next door with Down's Syndrome who constantly speaks of angels and draws pictures of the heavenly
beings surrounding Annie.
Annie doesn't have time for religion and fantasy. With a promising job in New York,
she just wants to sell her sister's house and get back to her real life. What she isn't prepared for is the emerging love
she feels for the handsome man who insists on doing her heavy repairs, or Annie's growing fondness to the little boy who sees
angels.
ANGEL SONG is a tale of supernatural forces at work in a woman's life. The story shows how God can reveal
himself through song, angels, and the love of community.
High on the faith scale.
A SUITOR FOR JENNY A Rocky Creek Romance By Margaret Brownley ISBN
978-1-59554-810-8 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jenny just wanted what was best for her two sisters—she'd promised
their father. The news article said that Rocky Creek had lots of wealthy bachelors. But that isn't at all what Jenny finds.
Something is very wrong indeed. What a mistake!
Jenny draws the ire of the townsfolk with her business-like approach
to marriage until even her sisters rebel. Her own heart rebels against her choice to remain single because of a secret she
won't tell anyone, but which gives her nightmares.
Can God get through to Jenny and work in the lives of three very different
women to provide just the grooms HE has planned for them? A story that deals with hurt, wrong choices and forgiveness with
sensitivity and love.
Old West, misplaced ladies, romance, faith, a theme of God's forgiveness
and humor is a recipe for a good read. Good book for that relaxing afternoon.
Faith element: medium
HER DAUGHTER'S DREAM Conclusion to the first book Her Mother's Hope By
Francine Rivers ISBN 978-1-4143-3409-7 Tyndale House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This book takes up where HER MOTHER'S HOPE leaves off. Only now new generations
become entangled in the generational misunderstanding and hurt. Can one more generation “see” the problems and
be the bridge to bring the generations together?
From Germany to San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury to war, generations of
the family feel marginalized and unloved, which leads to some very bad choices. Along comes a product of one of those choices—May
Flower Dawn. Though she suffers her own hurts and makes her own bad choices, Dawn finds redemption and in that redemption
seeks to bring the older generations together. Will she be able to do so or will her efforts lead to further and permanent
alienation?
Taking up the family saga in the 50's and bringing it to the present
day, Rivers weaves a story that is full and rich and cathartic. In this two book series, there is so much. Amazing how Rivers
has been able to tell a multi-generational story and draw it all together in two--long--books. Of course, I was tearing up
and swallowing hard at the end.
Not an easy read, but worth the effort. Can read this one alone, but
much better to read both books to get the whole story.
This would make a wonderful mini-series.
Faith element: high
REINVENTING RACHEL By Alison Strobel ISBN 978-1-4347-6774-5 David
C Cook Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Dedicated Christian, Rachel, all about righteousness and rewards, has
no idea what to do or where God is when her world crumbles. Confused about her life and faith, she leaves everything behind
to start a new life in Chicago only to find problems haven't left her behind.
As Rachel explores her new life, a life without God and what others believe,
she finds herself searching for the Truth. Will she find it before she loses what is most important of all—herself?
A story that explores different paths to God and how traditions and rules
of Christianity can mask the real thing—a love relationship with Christ.
Not an easy, shallow read, but one that can make a difference.
Faith element: medium to high
THE MAILBOX By Marybeth Whalen ISBN 978-0-7814-0369-6 David
C Cook T Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
God gives second chances. Lindsey Adams visits the Kindred Spirit mailbox
at Sunset Beach, North Carolina on her first visit at the age of fifteen. The practice of writing letters to the unknown reader
quickly became a yearly pilgrimage as she writes of her first love, love's betrayal, and the monumental events that make up
the next twenty years.
Now, returning for the first time with only her two children as companions,
can Lindsey forgive and allow herself a new relationship with her first love, Campbell Forrester? Can Campbell forgive himself
for breaking Lindsey's heart?
THE MAILBOX is about more than love and forgiveness. It is a story of second chances.
Of waiting to follow God's plan for your life rather than the lusts of one's heart. Marybeth Whalen has crafted a contemporary
novel full of characters so real you're certain you've met them on one of your own summer holidays.
On the beautiful beach of Sunset Beach, meet the residents of this country
town and see God's work in the lives of two people. A wonderful read.
High on the faith scale.
LOVE REMAINS Matchmakers By Kaye Dacus ISBN 978-1-60260-989-1 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Bobby broke Zarah's heart 14 years ago after her father threw her out
for seeing him. What is he doing at her church, attending her singles group and invading the life she's built for herself?
Zarah broke Bobby's heart 14 years ago when she preferred her education
to life with an enlisted soldier. What is she doing in his home church, friends with his good friend and looking as beautiful
as ever?
When Bobby is given the task of investigating Zarah, her boss and the
organization she works for, he knows he cannot pursue a relationship unless or until she's cleared. But while he is still
angry at her desertion so long ago, his heart is ready to take another chance.
Can these two forgive and move on without discovering the truth about
the past and the plans God has for them for the future? They may be able to discount circumstance, they can refuse to listen
to God's leading, but with two loving, interfering grandmothers who want to see their grandchildren happy—I don't think
so.
A trademark sweet romance with a touch of both mystery and humor mixed
with faith.
Note: I like the larger print used by Barbour Publishing in their fiction.
Makes reading much less strain on the eyes.
A TIME TO LOVE Quilts of Lancaster County By Barbara Cameron ISBN
978-1-4267-0763 Abingdon Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jennie King was shattered in mind, body and soul from the bomb that destroyed
her world and, possibly, her career as a correspondent in troubled places around the world. She highlighted the needs of hurting
children in war or hunger-torn areas. But the bomb leaves Jennie broken.
Her place of refuge is the home of her wise Amish grandmother. There
Jennie begins to heal, there she finds peace and, in the Amish community, she once more finds the strong, Amish Matthew who
held the heart of a girl who'd visited once long ago.
What is Jennie's future—in the English world or with the peaceful
Amish? If she stays who will tell the story of hurting children around the world? If she goes, will she leave behind her heart?
A sweet romance of conflict, faith and love, with characters that touch
your heart.
Faith element: medium plus
ALWAYS THE BAKER NEVER THE BRIDE By Sandra D. Bricker ISBN:
978-1-4267-0762-9 Abingdon Press Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Emma Rae Travis, as sweet as the cakes she
bakes, leaves a stable job to hire on as chief baker to a brand new hotel catering to wedding parties. From linens to suites,
the hotel caters to a bride and groom's every whim. She signs on, not knowing that the hotel is the dream of a dead woman,
or that the handsome boss still isn't over the tragic death of his wife. Needless to say, he's as off limits as the pastries
Emma Rae bakes. Being diabetic, she can't indulge in the delectable treats she bakes, and her boss has no desire to indulge
in another relationship, especially with a woman who shares his deceased wife's faith in God.
ALWAYS THE BAKER
NEVER THE BRIDE is as sweet and funny a read as the title promises. Full of quirky characters, this book promises a delightful
romance that will keep the reader smiling as they turn the pages. Sometimes our deepest desires don't even come close to the
plan God has for us. A plan that surpasses our highest dreams.
High on the faith scale.
VALERIA'S CROSS By Kathi Macias and Susan Wales ISBN 978-1-4267-0215-0 Abingdon
Press Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Valeria, pampered daughter of Roman Emperor, Diocletian, loves Mauritius,
brave soldier in the Theban Legion. When the entire Christian legion is martyred for refusing to sway from their faith, Valeria
is heartbroken. Even more so when she is ordered to marry Galerius, the man responsible for her loved one's death. But the
daughter of a political leader has no say in her own life. Valeria goes to extreme measures to prevent her marriage, and finally
succumbs to the knowledge that God will use her in a way she could never have imagined. God will use this young woman to change
the Roman Empire.
VALERIA'S CROSS is a historical story resplendent in detail, love, courage, and steadfast faith.
It shows the reader what the early believers endured in a time full of paganism, and how God can pull a simple girl from her
circumstances to fulfill his mighty plan.
High on the faith scale, this belongs on the shelf of every reader
who loves Biblical fiction.
MEDICAL ERROR By Richard L Mabry MD ISBN 978-1-4267-1000-1 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Carrie Padgett
One of Dr. Anna McIntyre's patients dies on the operating table. She's
suspended and investigated for narcotics trafficking because prescriptions with her signature are turning up all over Dallas.
Then Anna's credit cards are declined. Her professional and personal lives collide when she receives a lab report saying she
tested positive for a deadly disease.
Dr. Nick Valentine has lost his faith in God, but not in himself, not
in medicine, and not in beautiful Anna McIntyre. He helps Anna figure out what went wrong in the operating room and hopes
to help her put her personal life back together as well.
Ross Donovan is a recovering alcoholic and the attorney who defends Anna
against the charges of narcotics trafficking, negligence, and even murder. Ross is tempted by alcohol and Anna's green eyes.
Can he resist them both?
MEDICAL ERROR is the sophomore fiction novel from Dr. Richard Mabry,
a retired physician and medical school professor. Dr. Mabry knows his setting with an intimacy that shines through on every
page. MEDICAL ERROR is a well-written and well-plotted medical suspense. The only error would be to not add it your Must Read
list.
Faith element: Moderate
CORNHUSKER DREAMS Three-in-One Collection ISBN 978-1-60260-581-7 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Audrey wants to do something for the soldiers coming through North Platte
by train on the way to war. She helps start the canteen that provides a lift of spirits. Willard would do anything to be one
of those soldiers, but his father needs him on the ranch. He can't get Audrey out of his mind and heart, but his attitude
keeps separating them. Will these two let life's challenges and crushed dreams keep them from what God has for them—each
other?
Lainie, Audrey's friend, is determined to make a difference even if ill
health keeps her from going overseas with the nurses. But what can she find in Fort Robinson, a place where dogs are trained
and partnered with soldiers? When her already, to her mind, miserable life gets worse, will she allow herself to turn to Tom
who trains dogs and to God for answers and love?
Tom's friend, Sid, finds himself, not overseas, but outside of Holdrege
NE guarding German prisoners of war. With so many young men overseas, the German prisoners are used to help bring in crops.
But will Sid be able to get through the shell Anna has pulled around herself to protect her from a missing brother, a father
who has withdrawn since her mother's death and a farm falling apart around her, to find a basis of faith and hope and love?
Three wonderful romances seeped in World War history. I've said that
if I taught history, I'd assign good historical fiction so the students can relive history beyond facts and figures. I'd use
this collection. Accurate, well put together and stories that makes me wish to hear more from these characters.
Faith element: medium
COURTING MORROW LITTLE By Laura Frantz ISBN 978-0-8007-3340-7 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Morrow lives in fear, had lived in fear since her mother and little sister
where murdered by Indians, her brother disappeared and her pastor father became a shadow of his former self. All grown up,
Morrow is returning home from out East ready to pick up the pieces of her life. But nothing is the same. Her father is ill.
Redcoats and Bluecoats fight for the country and Indians are on everyone's hit list. Not her father's.
He continues his friendship with a Shawnee father and son.
Morrow's looks engender jealousy, envy and some very unwanted advances,
but as her fear of Indians recedes, her heart takes a surprising turn. Can Morrow carve out a life of peace and love on a
frontier battleground?
A story of betrayal, war, and a sweet romance. Even in the worst of circumstances,
God's love can mold, mend and heal hearts.
Faith element: high
TWILIGHT'S SERENADE Song of Alaska #3 By Tracie Peterson ISBN
978-0-7642-0153-0 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Beth has been around the world playing her violin, but now she is home
to make a decision about her future. Only her time at home brings her past into her life when she finds herself caring for
the daughters of the man she never stopped loving. But will Yuri ever be the man she needs or will Beth find her future far
away in the music that for so many years gave her joy?
As always Tracie brings the reader into the setting and into the heart
of characters who struggle and fall and find that God is both forgiving and faithful when we come to him.
A perfect ending to the Song of Alaska series. (I do so love prologues
for “the rest of the story.”
Faith element: high
WALKER'S WEDDING The Western Sky series By Lori Copeland ISBN
978-0-7369-2761-1 Harvest House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
All Sara wanted to do was get married and have children. Wyoming Rancher
Walker wanted nothing to do with women after his fiancée walked out on him. But he needed an heir and even a mail order bride
would do. But when Sara does a switch with the reluctant bride, Walker finds his life and his heart invaded by a woman who
only wants to love him.
Can he trust she is different, that she is who she claims? What happens
when both Sara's wealthy father and Walker learn of her deception? Will hurt and unforgiveness keep them from the love God
intended for His children?
A story of hurt, betrayal, forgiveness and second changes with stubborn
characters way too much like who we really are. A story with heart.
Faith element: low to medium
SIMPLY SARA Sequel to Plain Jane By Hillary Manton Lodge ISBN
978-0-7369-2699-7 Harvest House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sara emerged from her Amish home into the English world by way of her
brother's fiancées' trunk. A real scare for Jayne, but a whole new adventure for Sara who wasn't ready to explain or deal
with her past. She wanted to design clothes, loved bright colors and textured fabrics. But is she ready for the English world
where not everyone understands, certainly not William, her boss at the bookstore, at least not at first.
School is wonderful. Friends are great, and Sara learns more about how
to live in the English world all the time. But an accident changes everything—her relationships, her finances and her
confidence. Is she really meant for the English world or was this just a step back to her Amish roots?
A sweet story of love, acceptance and finding God's purpose. A very enjoyable
read. Perfect sequel to PLAIN JAYNE.
Faith element: medium.
SHADES OF MORNING By Marlo Schalesky ISBN 978-1-60142-025-1 Multnomah
Reviewer Carrie Padgett
SHADES OF MORNING defies description. In a good way.
Marnie Wittier saves keepsakes of her past, not to remember good times,
but to remind her of her regrets and mistakes. Fifteen years earlier, Marnie ran away, leaving her first love, Taylor Cole,
and her sister, Rose, behind in Maine. While she's made a new life in California, the past won’t leave her alone.
When Marnie receives a letter from Taylor breaking the news that Rose
has died, she discovers her sister's will names her the guardian of a teen with Down’s Syndrome, she never knew existed.
Emmitt's arrival produces upheaval in Marnie's life, forcing her to confront the past and helping her to a place of letting
go, healing...and love.
Schalesky has crafted a tale of regret and hope, blending the elements
of real life into a contemporary fable.
SHADES OF MORNING is a surprising story of new beginnings and even better
endings. Marlo
Faith element: Moderate to high.
JORDAN'S CROSSING By Randall Arthur ISBN 978-1-590052-260-8 Multnomah
Review by Cynthia Hickey
Jordan Rau packs up his family and moves them to Germany to accept a position with
a European mission organization. He's got all the right answers to life's problems. God is in his pocket. Then, the worst
thing imaginable happens and his heart is hardened and full of hate. Jordan pushes aside God, his wife, his daughter, and
embarks on a vigilanti quest to find the brutal murderers of his only son.
While following a lead, he walks into a church and hears a man speak
a story similar to Jordan's. Except Jordan only focuses on the fact that the man has ties to the Jamaican mob.
After
an accident that almost ends his life, Jordan's family holds out hope that he'll be changed. Their hearts sink when they realize
he is still full of hate. Jordan is still hunting for the killers of his son. When Jordan comes face-to-face the men who ended
his son's life, he faces the most difficult decision of his life.
JORDAN'S CROSSING is a page-turning suspense
story where the good guy may not be much better than the ones he's chasing. But God does not desert us, even when we draw
far away from Him. This is a story of hope and strength under trials that can crush a person.
High on the faith
scale.
SATURDAY MORNING By Lauraine Snelling ISBN 978-0-307-45904-6 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Just when her Lavender business is starting to take off, Andy's husband
takes a corporate job in San Francisco and wants her to be his stay-at-home corporate wife. But Andy has no intention of giving
up her home that has been in her family for generations or her newly blossoming business for a husband who can't seem to see
anything but himself. She will compromise. That includes buying a house in San Francisco and flying back and forth. It isn't
the best situation and tensions rise.
Hope and her husband run Casa de Jesus, a home for those women who
need a hand up. But pressures are building and they need funds, lots of funds, to bring their building up to code.
Clarice arrives with nothing, no husband, no possessions and a shattered
heart. Julia leaves her practice to find her granddaughter she fears is on the streets. Brought together by hurt and pain
and confusion, these women have no idea that their friendship, prayers and actions will bring healing and hope not only to
the women of Casa de Jesus, but to their own situations as well. But is there any way to save Casa de Jesus before the city
condemns the building and forces them to give up the very place where they found each other?
A story of shattered dreams, of friendship and a story of the forgiveness,
and healing Jesus brings, even in impossible situations. Well worth the read.
Faith element: medium
THE PIRATE QUEEN By Patricia Hickman ISBN 978-1-4000-7200-2 WaterBrook
Press Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Saphora Warren's home is being featured in Southern Living magazine. Her
husband is a renowned surgeon. Life couldn't be more perfect in other people's eyes. But Saphora has her bags packed, plans
on leaving her seemingly idyllic life and spending some alone time at their coastal home in Oriental. That is until her husband
comes home from work early and lays a bomb shell on her. He's dying from brain cancer.
Saphora and her husband
spend his last days in Oriental surrounded by family, new friends, and a precious little boy with a deadly secret. Not only
does Saphora find that she still loves her wandering husband, she finds so much more in the love of a child and the arms of
a loving God.
THE PIRATE QUEEN is a poignant story about what truly matters in life and one woman's search to
finding answers. Patricia Hickman does an excellent job injecting some of the tough issues in today's world into a story of
Saphora's quest for meaning.
AS RAIN FALLS By T H Kirby ISBN 978-1-936127-19-1 Treble Heart
Books: MountainView Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The baby endured mother's tears and father's abuse, but the final decision
of the parents is a killer. A short novel that touches on subjects that break our hearts. What is sad is how an outcome would
be different if we understood our value and knew we were loved not for what we offer, but just because we are—a special
unique creation.
This one doesn't take long to read, but it will be a story you'll be
passing on to someone who needs to read this special story.
Wish there were discussion questions in the book. This would make a good book for
a discussion or Bible Study group to consider.
WHISPER ON THE WIND By Maureen Lang ISBN 978-1-4143-2436-4 Tyndale
House Reviewer Carrie Padgett
WHISPERS ON THE WIND shouts God’s goodness to His followers, even
when His plan seems unknowable.
In 1916, Belgium is occupied by the German army. Isa Lassone fled Brussels
when war broke out but she has returned to save the family who loved her like one of their own. Isa is especially eager to
see Edward, the eldest son, who has lost his father and his faith.
Isa’s plan for the family to escape meets an unexpected snag: Edward
is involved in an underground resistance effort and he refuses to leave Belgium. The rest of his family resolves to stay with
him.
Isa becomes involved with the resistance movement, against Edward’s
objections. What happens next tests the faith and fortitude of Isa, Edward, his mother, and the German major who lodges with
them.
Lang has done an excellent job drawing her reader into World War I and
the stories of the brave souls who fought and perished on both sides.
Faith element: Moderate to High
AUTUMN'S PROMISE Seasons of Sugarcreek #3 By Shelly Shepherd Gray ISBN
978-0-06-185237-4 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Englisher Lilly has been through a lot during the year. Will her life
ever be “back to normal” and does she even want that? She has grown so much over the last year. But when the Amish
widower Robert shows her attention, will Lilly discover all she's been through disqualifies her for a future of love or will
God find away even through two very different cultures?
Two cultures clash in this story of love and redemption and discovering
God's plans and purposes aren't always ours. This is a fitting end to the Sugarcreek series that has taken our emotions through
the seasons as we've been drawn into the lives the English Allens and their Amish neighbors. Key
questions were answered and the plot wrapped up in this sweet romance. However, I would have liked an Epilogue as I felt I
needed more of a conclusion. Another series perhaps???
Faith element: medium
THE SISTER WIFE Brides of Gabriel #1 By Diane Noble ISBN
978-0-06-196222-6 Avon Inspire Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Mary Rose's grandfather is excited about the
new Western frontier religion known as the Saints, or Mormons. He drags Mary Rose from a priviledged life in England to one
of equality as a Sister. On the sea voyage over, Mary Rose meets Gabriel, the designer of one of the fastest ships to make
the journey.
While Gabriel embraces the new religion wholeheartedly, Mary Rose has
misgivings, often remembering scripture she learned as a child at her mother's knee.
Then Gabriel, as a promising priest in Mormonism, is ordered to take
Mary Rose's best friend as his second wife. Mary Rose must now make the most difficult decision of her life. Stay as the first
wife to the man she loves, or head back to England at the risk of being punished.
Although THE SISTER WIFE is
strong in Mormon beliefs and history, there is an underlying element of Christian truth. Especially when Mary Rose begins
to question her new-found religion. It took me a while to get past the Mormonism, but once I did, I discovered a story rich
in historical detail.
Low on the faith scale.
THE PRODIGAL PATRIOT By Darlene Franklin ISBN 978-1-60260-904-4 Heartsong
Presents Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The Revolutionary War has begun tearing apart those who have been friends
and neighbors for years. When Sally and her family have to go into hiding on their own property because they are Patriots,
they wonder who they can trust. Will Josiah, who has already lost so much, help the family his father now despises? Is there
hope for two caught, because of family ties, on different sides of the revolution? Will Sally and Josiah trust that God has
a plan for their lives that includes hope, reconciliation...and love?
A sweet romance with memorable characters that showcases what we don't
hear much about, the heartache caused to families and neighbors who chose different sides and how quickly caring can become
hatred and worse. Considering the Revolutionary War was just in the beginning stages at the end of the book, I'd like to read
“the rest of the story” in another book.
Faith element: medium
TRIAL BY FIRE By Cara Putman ISBN 978-0-373-44359-8 Steeple
Hill: Love Inspired Suspense Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Prosecutor Tricia Jamison struggles with the latest case assigned her—a
battered, abused wife. She longs to put the perpetrator behind bars, but the case brings back too any personal memories. That
is only one of the things on her plate as her family seems targeted by an arsonist. As the fires and danger increase, Tricia
is thrown once more into the company of fire investigator Noah Brust, who hasn't forgiven her for her prosecution of a case
the year before.
But Noah can't get Tricia out of his head. Did he seriously misjudge
the situation the year before because of his personal grief and guilt?
The arsonist's attacks are increasingly violent. Can Tricia and Noah
work together to find the threat that ties the fires together before they or someone they love dies? Can they trust God enough
to allow Him to let go the past for a future of faith and love?
Nice balance of character and plot with a story that makes it difficult
to put down the book until the final page.
Faith element: medium to high
A SHORE THING An Otter Bay Novel By Julie Carobini ISBN 978-08054-4875-7 B&H
Publishing Group Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Callie walks the shore of Otter Bay, thankful the owners promised to
preserve this land. When she runs into men on the land with development on their minds, cause-oriented Callie, springs into
action. She'll do almost anything to preserve this land, but will it be at the expense not only of the land, but also of the
owners, the town and her heart?
Gage only wants to do his job. If the land was to be developed, he wants
to make it as environmentally friendly as possible. It was his big chance and he has others depending upon him. Why
can't Callie get beyond his job to work together and why can't he get her out of his mind...or heart?
A story of romance and love, but also of the danger of making assumptions
and jumping into actions before knowing all the facts and exploring all the options.
Can a developer and an environmentalist ever see eye-to-eye, or heart-to-heart?
A sweet romance that explores a serious subject, leaving everyone changed.
Faith element: low
A SHORE THING By Julie Carobini ISBN 978-08054-4875-7 B&H
Fiction Reviewer Carrie Padgett
A SHORE THING by Julie Carobini is a creative and fun story about real characters
trying to honor and preserve God’s creation without worshiping the sand and birds.
Callie Duflay is busy in her central California coast town of Otter Bay.
She works weekends at the local Christian camp while her weeks are full of family and community activities. She loves Otter
Bay and is dismayed to learn that the last undeveloped land along the coast is about to be sold and plans are being drawn.
Architect Gage Mitchell moved to Otter Bay believing his client, a local
builder, shared Gage’s values of green design and construction. Gage understands the community’s opposition to
the development, but wishes that attractive woman, Callie, would at least listen to his plans for an eco-friendly project.
At least her dog, Moondoggy, seems to like Gage.
Callie and Gage each learn secrets about Otter Bay’s residents
and businesspeople. They struggle to balance doing the God-fearing and right thing while honoring their promises to others.
I almost expected to shake out sand from between the pages of A SHORE
THING.
Faith element: low to medium; it arises naturally from the plot and characters.
TOUCHING THE CLOUDS Alaskan Skies #1 By Bonnie Leon ISBN 978-0-8007-3359-9 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
It is the 1930's. Women grow up, marry and have families. But Kate isn't
like everyone else. She's been flying planes since she was small and she feels the call for more, much more. Leaving her home,
she heads to Alaska to become a bush pilot. Only she discovers being a woman and a pilot isn't quite what she thought it would
be, isn't easy and brings along it's own set of problems.
But even as she begins to acclimate she finds herself drawn to both another
pilot and a man hiding away in the bush. Can his secrets be more devastating than her own? What happens when Kate finds a
situation she can't control? Will her heart ever allow her to “fall” for the right man?
Kate has courage. She's willing to take risks and see where that leads.
She faces her fears, eventually, and helps others face theirs. A story of courage, letting go, moving on...and love.
The conclusion felt rushed, but the main story elements were tied up.
Since this is the first of a series, I hope to see more of these characters. Looking forward to it. Well drawn characters
and a story that kept me turning pages.
Faith element: low
STILL HOUSE POND By Jan Watson ISBN 978-1-4143-2386-2 Tyndale
House Reviewer Carrie Padget
STILL HOUSE POND is a gentle story that reminds the reader that even
the “simpler times,” weren’t so simple and that God is sovereign and trustworthy.
Copper Corbett is a nurse and midwife in rural Kentucky. She was widowed
with a daughter, Lilly, who is now eleven. Copper is remarried to a good man and has three more children.
Manda Whitt is Copper’s hired help. Manda yearns for adventure
and the kind of true love she reads about in magazines. This longing leads her into adventure all right, but not the kind
that ends happily.
Lilly Gray Corbett is a precocious child who loves animals and can’t
stand to see one in distress. This affection for creatures gets her into trouble. And saves her life.
Copper is uneasy when Lilly’s aunt demands to have Lilly visit
for a month. Copper reluctantly agrees to send her oldest daughter alone on the train. News of a train crash reaches the Corbett
home and Copper and her husband, desperate to find Lilly, rush to the crash site.
The story began a little slowly for me, but by midway I was engrossed
in the happenings at the Corbett home. The three threads come together in a satisfying conclusion.
Faith element: Moderate to high.
RANSOME'S CROSSING The Ransome Trilogy #2 By Kaye Dacus ISBN
978-0-7369-2754-3 Harvest House Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Charlotte Ransome wants to get to the Caribbean
to marry the man she'd corresponded with for over two years. To do that, she must impersonate a midshipman on a ship in her
brother's convoy. What she didn't figure on was the handsome First Lieutenant, Ned Cochrane, recognizing her. An attack at
sea throws the two of them together. Will he keep her secret until it's too late to turn back? And how can Charlotte marry
her intended, when her heart wants Ned? Once Charlotte reaches her destination, she is faced with a daunting choice and must
risk danger in order to follow her heart.
Not only is RANSOME'S CROSSING a story about Charlotte and Ned, but
it is also a continuation of Julia and William's story from Ransome's Honor. Kaye Dacus has masterfully woven the two romances
together in one seamless tale. Not only will the reader indulge in a wonderful story of love, but will be told a story of
truth and courage.
Medium on the faith scale.
SARAH'S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE By Mary Ellis ISBN 978-0-7369-2968-4 Harvest
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sarah loves her home and likes that Adam has come calling. But when he
seeks a closer relationship, she hesitates. How could she handle it if one of their children broke her heart like her brother
broke her mother's heart when he not only left the Amish community, but also cut off all contact with his family?
Before Sarah can commit to the church or Adam, she needs to discover
why her brother left. But will her actions bring her the satisfaction she desires? Will her quest lead her to her brother
or just away from her Amish community? What about Adam, will he wait for her make up her mind...and heart.
A sweet Christmas romance of faith, love and second chances. A lovely
sentimental Christmas story.
Faith element: high
FATAL LOYALTY By Sue Duffy ISBN 978-0-8254-2594-3 Kregel Publications
Reviewer Carrie Padgett
FATAL LOYALTY is an intricately plotted story of revenge, love, forgiveness
and redemption.
Tony Ryborg is running for Governor of Florida on a law and order platform,
promising to crack down on the narcotics traffic in his state. This is his personal and passionate cause.
Andrea Ryborg is being stalked and frightened. The harassment is intended
to get her father to drop out of the election. Andie stymies the drug cartel by refusing to tell her father about the vandalism
and scare tactics. She feels alone and deserted by God, but doesn't see any way out.
Evan Markham is trying to save Andie while not betraying anyone. He has
chosen a lonely and dangerous path.
Everyone is caught in a web of deception and secrets. When the secrets
are revealed, everyone works together to overcome the evil. Andie and Evan discover that not only has God not abandoned them,
but they need Him and His protection over their lives.
FATAL LOYALTY shows that you can run from God, your family, your problems,
but you can't hide. God will always find you and see you through.
Faith element: Moderate.
THE LAST CHRISTIAN By David Gregory ISBN 978-1-4000-7497-6 WaterBrook
Press Reviewed by Casey Pitts
Imagine living in an isolated mission village for your entire life. Abigail
Caldwell emerges from the jungles of New Guinea to be thrust into the culture of the United States, AD 2088. Her calling to
simply share the gospel in this postmodern mission field is seen as a threat. Abby threatens political, industrial and scientific
agendas as she spreads the good news that living eternally without Christ is no life at all. Alistair Nichols, artificial
intelligence guru, intends to silence Abby and those like her.
David Gregory paints a believable, futuristic mural of our society. Breakdown
of committed relationships. Technological advancements that relieve people from a strong work ethic. Silencing of the gospel
of Christ in the name of political correctness.
Abby Caldwell is a heroine to be admired. A riveting story about how
one voice in a sea of apathy can change the hearts of mankind. This book rocked my world!
Faith Element: High
CLAIM: A NOVEL OF COLORADO Homeward Trilogy #3 By Lisa Bergren ISBN
978-1-4347-6706-6 David C Cook Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Odessa and husband are rebuilding their ranch after a hard winter and
the events that brought her famous songster sister Moira to the ranch for hope and healing. Moira's marred face reflects the
pain of her heart and the question--can Daniel, the man who saved her more than once, forget her past and disfigurement to
love her? When the parents of her unborn child contact her should she wait for Daniel, fighting his own demons, or go east?
What does God want for her?
As for their brother Nic, he isn't far away. But he hasn't settled his
own heart or God's place in his rebellious heart—not until a little boy loses a father and the wild, beautiful woman
on the claim next to theirs needs a rescue. Will Nic wait for God's leading or will this prodigal son run again?
How will God bring all three siblings back to Himself and together in
this final and very satisfying wrap up to The Homeward Trilogy? This series is best read as a unit to reveal the depth and
richness of the setting, the characters and the story.
Faith element: high
LOVE FINDS YOU IN GOLDEN NEW MEXICO By Lena Nelson Dooley ISBN
978-1-935416-74-6 Summerside Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Madeline has no idea that with the death of her father her life is taking
a decided turn for the worst. Her father's partner not only creeps her out, but insists that if she doesn't marry him, he'll
cut her off completely. His threats force her to take the only way out she can find, answering the ad for a bride from Golden,
New Mexico.
Madeline doesn't expect to find her “groom” a dear man or
to find that the situation isn't anything like what she expected. She doesn't expect to find acceptance and friends. But why
does the handsome rancher seem to despise her so much? When her secrets are revealed will she be even more danger or will
she find God has already paved the way to freedom...and love?
A sweet romance with characters who live their faith and where God is
a God of love, forgiveness and restoration. Great book to take on vacation, to the beach or for a time of rest, refreshment.
Faith element: high
LOVE FINDS YOU IN LAHAINA HAWAII By Bodie Thoene ISBN 978-1-935416-78-4 Summerside
Press Review by Cynthia Hickey
Sandi Smith heads to Lahaina, Hawaii to interview the oldest living Hawaiian,
Aunti Hannah. Through conversations, letters, newspaper clippings and the lush exotic land that is Hawaii, Sandi finds much
more than she thought she'd find. She uncovers a secret from a time of monarchs. A time of love and the loyalty of a people.
Through her research, she is thrust into a love story and a tale of betrayal, while the island beauty heals her own broken
heart.
Bodie Thoene has written a story that takes the reader from the Royal Kingdom of Hawaii in 1889 to Hawaii
in 1973, intertwining two stories so seamlessly they become one. A tale of love and grace and God's promises. LOVE FINDS YOU
IN LAHAINA HAWAII is a rich historical romance. The reader will cheer and cry with the characters through every page.
High
on the faith scale.
HOMETOWN TIES The Four Linda's By Melody Carlson ISBN
1-4347-6495-9 David C Cook Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Who said you can't go home again? Four friends
since childhood, and now in their fifties, Caroline, Abby, Janie, and Marley return to their roots and find out things aren't
as rosey as they'd thought.
Each deals with issues that would drown a person who didn't have the
support of lifelong friends. Caroline finds out that dealing with a mother with Alzheimers can be a prison sentence if you
don't allow others to help you, Marley believes that her painting comes only when she's angry, Janie gave up a promising career
as a lawyer for small town life, and Abby's marriage is spiraling downhill. When tragedy threatens one of the four, they pull
together and discover what really makes life worth living.
In HOMETOWN TIES, Melody Carlson writes about issues
that affect everyone nowadays, from bitterness, the search for love, and finding the love that's right under your nose. A
work of women's fiction, these issues will prick at the heart of the reader and have you cheering for each of the "four Lindas"
to pull through their personal valley and stand high on the mountain. Although it is downplayed, and not the focus of the
story, God's love is still undoubtably within these pages.
Low on the faith scale.
PRICELESS By Tom Davis ISBN 978-1-5891-9103-7 David C Cook Review
by Cynthia Hickey
Stuart Daniels carts his photography equipment around the world photographing the downtrodden
in order to raise the world's awareness to poverty. When he arrives back in Russia, his world is turned upside down as he
finds himself in the middle of a sex-trafficking ring and running from the Russian Mafia.
The leader turns out to be the person he least expects. Battling God's
call on his life, Stuart is badgered by hell's legions until he realizes that the loss of his life is worth saving even one
lost child of Russia.
PRICELESS is a story of hope when surrounded by darkness. A message of God's love that
never fails even when you wonder where God is in the circumstances surrounding you. With page turning intensity, the reader
is drawn into the bleakness of human trafficking, and the courage that pulls a person free.
High on the faith
scale.
THE HEALER Brides of Alba #1 By Linda Windsor ISBN 978-1-4347-6478-2 David
C Cook Review by Cynthia Hickey
As the child born to fulfill of a prophecy of uniting two kingdoms, Brenna
is swept away to a twenty-year exile while Chieftain Tarlach O'Byrne massacres her people. The random glimpses of her and
her white wolf fuel the rumors of her being a witch. When she rescues the son of Tarlach from an ambush, she loses more than
her anonymity. She loses her heart to a man sworn to be her enemy. Can they overcome insurmountable obstacles to fulfill an
age old prophecy? Even when it seems as if everyone around them shares the same goal? To kill the witch of prophecy?
HEALER
is a fantasy romance set during the times of kingly courts. Rife with spiritual warfare, this story thrusts the reader into
a world so real they can hear the clash of swords. And ringing above it all is the truth of God's Word and His promises.
High
on the faith scale.
SURRENDER THE HEART Surrender to Destiny Series By Mary Lou Tyndall ISBN
978-1-60260-165-9 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Marianne remembered Noah as a cruel brat who teased her mercilessly.
Noah remembers Marianne as a snob who always thought he was beneath her. But she needs to marry in order to receive her inheritance
to provide for her ill mother. He needs her inheritance to shore up the finances of his family's shipping business. They can't
stand each other, but their parents agree they will marry.
When Noah walks out on their engagement party, Marianne, seeing his behavior
as an insult, goes after him. She never intends to end up on his ship sailing into danger and the War of 1812.
Will these two let go of their preconceived notions about one another
and a multiple of other hurts to embrace not only the destiny God has for them, but also love?
As Marianne and Noah come to realize, God has a plan and a purpose for
our lives, if we trust Him and allow Him to work through us for the best of outcomes—even if heartache is part of the
price for that trust.
A plot-driven book with solid characters in a setting where you can almost
feel the motion of the deck, see the waves, hear the creak of the straining sails and smell the salt and sweat.
Faith element: high
If you like this historical era, you will enjoy this book. I want to
read more of these two.
DOCTOR IN PETTICOATS Sophie's Daughters By Mary Connealy ISBN
978-60260-146-8 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Beth, who'd been studying out East with a doctor, had to get back to
Texas for her sister Mandy's wedding. Even if that meant taking the stagecoach with the handsome stranger who appeared drunk
as a skunk. But when they come upon an overturned stage, Beth discovers the “drunk” isn't drunk at all, but a
broken doctor, a doctor who draws courage from her own expertise and courage. What she doesn't realize is that while Alex
needs her to steady him, she needs him to doctor without censure? Is she willing to marry the lunatic stranger in order to
fulfill her dream?
Actually, yes. But Beth has no idea this choice would lead her into both
joy and sorrow, danger and incredible pain. Can her faith revive his and can they both live to discover God's will for their
lives...together? Or will she always feel like clocking him when he gets that faraway look in his eyes?
As always, Connealy delivers a fun Old West historical romance with sturdy
women of common sense and faith not afraid to stand up for themselves, with a story worth the read and with a humor that sometimes
leaves the reader laughing out loud. I've said this with other books by Connealy, this would make a wonderful movie.
Faith element: medium
UNWILLING WARRIOR Seasons of Redemption #1 By Andrea Boeshaar ISBN
978-1-59979-985-8 Realms Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
With her mother gone, Valarie wants to comfort her father. But maybe
leaving her finishing school for young ladies wasn't such a good idea, not when her father either ignores or frightens her
with his decisions for his future and hers.
Her only consolation is the war photographer Ben who is staying at the
house and who rescues her from unwanted advances from a man who would be much more than an old friend. While there are definitely
sparks, the two are from very different world, and Ben is searching for his brother Luke—not seeking a wife.
But in the War Between the States, things often got ugly quickly. When
that ugliness endangers Valarie, Ben makes a decision that changes everything. Will their choices lead to a future of love...or
disaster?
A character driven story with elegant ladies and manly men, a war that
both separates and draws together and a theme that all things work together for good to those who love—and wait—on
the Lord.
A sweet story of love and faithfulness that wraps up nicely.
BTW, I love prologues that tie everything together. This one does.
NIGHTSHADE Discarded Heroes #1 By Ronie Kendig ISBN 978-1-60260-777-4 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Max felt like a discarded warrior. He'd failed. His marriage to Sydney
was a shambles because of his explosive anger. But how could he reveal the depth of his past or what he'd seen in the war?
When he is recruited for a super-secret ops group called Nightshade to rescue those in trouble around the world, he has a
new purpose. He does not know that his new work might put Sydney at risk. Can Max let go and let God take his anger? Will
journalist Sydney find answers before she destroys what is most precious?
NIGHTSHADE doesn't let readers catch many breaths before hurtling them
into mystery, suspense and the meaning of faith...and love. Strong men, independent women and a story of how God can soften
our hearts and draw us together—if we allow Him access.
Faith element: medium to high
A FAMILY AFFAIR By Caro Peacock ISBN 978-0-06-144769-5 Avon Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Liberty Lane was an independent sort of Victorian lady, one who enjoyed
a reputation for discreet investigations. When she is asked to assess the truth about a lady's allegations of her eldest son's
right to inherit, Lane finds herself uncovering secrets long buried, secrets that lead to more than one murder. Has the one
person for whom Lane is responsible already lost her life in the quest for truth? Will Liberty uncover the truth before the
family she's investigating is torn apart forever?
Good characterization and a plot that draws the reader not only into
the story, but also into Victorian England. The mystery has some very nice twists that leave the reader guessing until those
final pages when everything is wrapped up. Well done.
Liberty Lane is my kind of woman—independent, yet willing to work
with others, recognizing she doesn't have all the answers.
Enjoyed this immensely.
Faith element: N/A
THE GUNSMITH'S GALLANTRY Ladies Shooting Club By Susan Page Davis ISBN
978-1-60260-795-8 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The town has been quiet for a time, until Isabel's father, Cyrus, gets
a visit from a less-then-reputable man her father claims is her “Uncle.” Suddenly, the town has cowboys causing
trouble in town and Isabel's father acting very out of character. Worse, Isabel suspects her father has something to hide
when her “Uncle” disappears.
But Isabel isn't the only one with problems. Hiram and his sister Trudy
are putting up with Hiram's deceased wife's sister, Rose, who seems to think she is a perfect match for the strong, silent
gunsmith. But Hiram has eyes for one of Trudy's friends.
Even with the help of the Ladies Shooting Club, can the people of Fergus,
Idaho get to the bottom of what is really going on? Can their friendship help Isabel realize her worth? These are just a few
of the questions answered as the author weaves together an Old West setting, action, humor and romance in THE GUNSMITH'S
GALLANTRY. An entertaining read.
Faith element: medium
UNDER A MAUI MOON By Robin Jones Gunn ISBN: 978-1-4165-8339-4 Howard
Publishing Review by Cynthia Hickey
Carissa Lathrop is woken from an early evening nap by an intruder in her
backyard. This spirals her into a vortex of fear as she no longer feels safe in her own home. Her husband, Robert, a counselor,
defends the intruder who happens to be one of his patients.
This widens the wedge already between them and erects a wall of silence
that Carissa has no idea how to get around. When she loses her job, she feels life is crumbling around her. She accepts the
offer of a free place to stay on the island of Maui and life will never be the same as she is forced to deal with her own
maturity level, her relationship with God, and whether she wants to repair her marriage.
UNDER A MAUI MOON is
a story most women can relate to when everything in their life seems to go wrong. When we hit bottom, we can then see the
light. Robing Jones Gunn brings us a story of hope and rekindled love.
Medium to high on the faith scale.
DECEIT By Brandilyn Collins ISBN 978-0-310-27644-9 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Baxter murdered her best friend six years earlier. Skip Tracer, Joanne
just couldn't prove it. Now, thanks to a nosy reporter who overheard her tirade at the Chief of Police, so does everyone else.
When a hooded man informs her that Baxter and Linda's foster daughter, Melissa, knew all about it, Joanne has no choice, but
to use her skills to find Melissa and persuade her to tell the cops what she knows.
But finding Melissa isn't all that easy, especially when Joanne finds
her search is putting herself and those around her in danger. Can she find Melissa and the answers before both of them join
the murdered list?
Think you have it all figured out? Trust me, you don't, you won't—not
until that final twist. I read it in a day.
A fast-paced compelling story of character revelation, mystery, unexpected
twists and a wrap-up that underscores why Brandilyn's tag line is “Don't forget to breathe.”
A CORPSE AT ST. ANDREW'S CHAPEL The second chronicle of Hugh
de Singleton By Mel Starr ISBN 978-1-85424-954-8 Monarch Books Reviewer: Carrie Padgett
A CORPSE AT ST ANDREW’S CHAPEL is part mystery and part history
lesson. But the lesson isn’t given at the expense of the story.
Hugh de Singleton is a surgeon and bailiff of Lord Gilbert’s manor
in Bampton, Great Britain, in the year of our Lord 1365. Another manor officer is found dead; to all appearances he was attacked
by a wolf.
de Singleton accepts the death at face value but is puzzled by the shoes
missing from the dead man’s feet. A wolf has no need of shoes so the bailiff determines to find and return the leather
shoes to the widow and rightful owner. His search takes him on a perilous journey of discovery.
Author Mel Starr is adept at weaving historical and medical details into
the narrative, as well as comments on church history and doctrine. John Wycliffe is a supporting character and muse
to de Singleton.
A CORPSE AT ST ANDREW’S CHAPEL is the second volume of a series
but stands alone well.
Faith element: Moderate to high. Hugh de Singleton muses on theology.
MISSING MAX By Karen Young ISBN 978-1-4165-8749-1 Howard Books
Review by Cynthia Hickey
An innocent outing at Mardi Gras turns to months of horror when Jane and Kyle Madison's
infant son disappears. Jane leaves him in the care of her teenage stepdaughter and goes to purchase lunch. When she returns,
Max is gone. The turmoil sends the Madison family into terror, heartache, and threats of a broken family.
Just when Jane begins to believe that maybe she'll never see her son
again, she catches glimpses of a child who resembles him, receives ominous phone calls, and mysterious packages. Then, her
daughter gets pregnant, believing that another baby will heal the gulf within the Madison family.
MISSING MAX
is a story of family strength, togetherness, and the huge power of a mother's love. It's a story of leaning on God when times
are dark and seem too tough to bust through. There's enough turmoil and suspense within the pages of Karen Young's newest
release to keep the reader frantically turning the pages, hoping and seeking, along with the characters.
High
on the faith scale.
HEADING HOME Indian Island Trilogy #3 By Renee Riva ISBN 978-1-4347-6776-9 David
C Cook Reviewed by Casey Pitts
When A.J. Degulio returns to Indian Island after an eight year hiatus,
everything has changed - including Danny Morgan. His attempts to woo her screech to a halt when A.J. announces that she is
seeking her true calling at Our Lady of the Lake Convent. A real obstacle for the best of suitors.
College classes, summer camp for kids, and a rival female complicate
A.J.’s plans with high energy drama and wit. But will Danny be patient while A.J. sorts out her life? If he does, what
will her Italian mama have to say about it?
Riva crafts side-splitting scenes from start to finish. I could hear
the characters dialogue in my head reminiscent of a romantic comedy movie. A great choice for a summer book club!
Faith Element: Moderate
CHASING LILACS By Carla Stewart ISBN 978-0-446-55655-2 FaithWords
Reviewer Casey Pitts
Sammie Tucker should be living a simple life in rural Texas enjoying
the freedom of being a young girl. Instead, the summer of 1958 brings loneliness and fear. Her mother, diagnosed as mentally
unstable, goes away for “shock treatments,” leaving Sammie longing for a mother’s love. In her search for
truth about her mother’s illness, she discovers new friendships in an elderly widower, a teen with a tough past, and
a good neighbor.
Surviving preteen years in the worst of circumstances, how will Sammie
trust anyone, when she feels abandoned? Can she ever return to the carefree life she once knew?
Within the first few pages, I found that the heart of a twelve year old
girl is not so different from my own. Sammie struggles with guilt, love, approval, and fear familiar to everyone. The story
flows easily and carries the reader along with emotion and unexpected twists. I worried for Sammie's safety like I would for
my own child.
An amazing debut novel for Carla Stewart. You won’t be able to
put it down!
Faith Element: Moderate to High
SEASON IN THE MIST Seasons of Destiny #1 By Deborah Kinnard ISBN
978-0-9824832-1-3 Sheaf House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
PhD Candidate Bethany finally made it to England, where she'd be studying.
Only nothing goes as planned. The vehicle that was to pick her up doesn't arrive. Instead, she accepts an offer from
the woman she'd met on the plane to spend a couple of days with her at her home in Cornwall.
One happenstance after another leads Bethany to Cornwall, exploring the
ruins and into the past. But was her walk through the portal of time happenstance or does God have something only Bethany
can do? Is there another reason Bethany finds history coming alive?
But Medieval England isn't a time of peace and quietude, and, if Bethany
isn't careful, her knowledge could well brand her as a witch. As the future fades into a life Bethany feels born to, when
her heart is engaged, will she be able to find answers for herself? What about her love for Baron Veryan and her future? Is
her future in the past or is her sojourn only a way for God to get her attention?
SEASON IN THE MIST takes the reader into the past along with Bethany
and makes both the setting and the story come alive. Since SEASON IN THE MIST is the first of a series, I wondered about the
ending. Would it be stretched out to many books? No. This story wraps up satisfactorily, leaving the reader feeling this was
a worthwhile and uplifting read.
Faith element: High
Umm. Will the next in the series, update us on Bethany's life or go in
a completely different direction. I'm ready to find out.
ANNA FINCH AND THE HIRED GUN By Kathleen Y'Barbo ISBN 978-307-44481-3 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Anna wasn't like other girls in 1885 Denver. She wanted more than high
society and a husband on her arm. She often rode from home in clothes anything but feminine. She even practiced her marksmanship
against an old log by the river outside of town. What Anna didn't know was that a Pinkerton agent, Jeb Sanders, was resting
on the other side of that log.
Her guilt at winging him turns into less delicate emotions when she discovers
Sanders has been hired by her father to keep her out of trouble until he can marry her off. But doing so is anything but simple
or easy as Sanders discovers. Sanders finds himself always on alert to author Anna's next scheme to ditch him for one of her
appointments--to get a story--with less than respectable characters—like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.
Anna wishes Sanders would leave her alone to pursue her dreams, until
she finds she not only can't get him out of her hair, she can't get him out of her mind or heart either. Sanders is equally
resistant to the tug of his heart. He is not going to let another woman he cares about pay the price for his profession.
Will these two stubborn, independent adults learn to pull together before
Anna's hazardous antics put them both in real danger?
The author catches both the setting and the spirit of an era when some
women were attempting to break out of the mold of women as only wives and mothers. The characters are fun, the plot fast-paced
and the conclusion all that a romantic desires.
Delightful.
Faith element: low
SIMPLE SECRETS The Harmony Series By Nancy Mehl ISBN 978-1-60260-512-1 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Gracie has the life she wants. A job as a graphic designer in the Kansas
city of Wichita, a life of her own and a loving family. But when an uncle she's never met, from Harmony, the town her parents
once fled, leaves her his home, Gracie must go to Harmony to see about her inheritance.
She expects a dark, judgmental town. What she finds are loving, caring
folk...for the most part. When Gracie begins to unravel a long-held secret, she finds herself in danger not only from an unknown
someone who seems bent on driving her away, but also from her traitorous heart toward Sam, the country boy who has her back.
Will she sort out the deadly secrets and be willing to follow God's guidance—wherever
it leads or will she run to the safety of her old life?
SIMPLE SECRETS is not an in-your-face mystery with bodies and blood on
every page. Instead, the story draws the reader into the characters, the setting and heart of Harmony until the story becomes
all too real. A nice mystery, a solid romance and an overall good read. Hard to put down.
Faith element: medium
A LOVE OF HER OWN Heart of the West #3 By Maggie Brendan ISBN
978-0-8007-3351-3 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
All spoiled “daddy's girl” April wants to do is to arrive
in Lewistown, Montana on time. Is that too much too ask? Guess it is. April isn't too happy with the traveling conditions
or that no deference is paid her. When the stage breaks down and she begs to take a horse in order to ride ahead to the wedding,
the driver is more than glad to get rid of her—once he realizes she really can handle a horse.
While April arrives in time for her brother Josh's wedding, she has no
idea that once he leaves on his honeymoon she'll be learning lessons of humanity, friendship and faith. Will she learn that
just maybe the world doesn't revolve around her, and can she, who has been burned by love, dare love again? Especially when
Wes, the one who makes her heart beat faster, appears to be a slovenly cowboy with a rather run-down ranch? Will April begin
to “see” beyond her selfishness to the hearts of those offering wisdom and friendship...and more?
Romance in beautiful Montana, can it get better than this? Those who come to this book after enjoying the earlier Heart of the West series
will come with a depth to April's character the rest of us may not share. Still, one need not read any of the other books
in the series to appreciate and enjoy A LOVE OF HER OWN. Two different people, conflict and fireworks....and love. A LOVE
OF HER OWN leaves the reader with a smile of satisfaction.
Faith element: medium
RESURRECTION IN MAY By Lisa Sampson ISBN 978-1-59554-544-2 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Carrie Padgett
RESURRECTION IN MAY is a beautiful and haunting portrait of a young woman
who endured one of the worst brutalities of the 20th century and her decade of healing that followed.
In 1993, May Seymour is a young college graduate, hungover and bedraggled
when she meets Claudius Borne, an elderly man who lives on his small Kentucky farm. She will be heading to Rwanda for relief
work later in the summer and Claudius invites her to stay until her departure.
In Rwanda, May is caught up in the genocide and is the lone survivor
in her village. The horror of the uprising follows May home and she takes refuge with Claudius. Agoraphobia and Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder grip May until years pass by with her never leaving the farm.
May begins to correspond with a college friend who is now on death row.
Their letters and discussions about God and evil and Jesus and what both May and Eli experienced begin to wake May from her
self-imposed hibernation.
RESURRECTION IN MAY is a touching story about redemption and second chances.
Faith element: Moderate to high.
THE WAY TO A MAN'S HEART By Mary Ellis ISBN 978-0-7369-2734-5 Harvest
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Leah loves to bake things like pies and already has a reputation when
she agrees to partner in a restaurant enterprise. But as an 18-year-old Amish young woman, she is reluctant to confront her
partner about unpaid bills and other irregularities she notices. After all, what does she know, her specialty is the baking
and waiting on customers? When she finds herself the center of male attention, when things at the restaurant don't go as planned
and when her love-life causes more problems than joy, Leah has to decide where her heart really lies. Can she find the true
foundation for her life and future?
This third in a series isn't just about Leah, though her story dominates,
it also enfolds the story of her sister Emma and her brother Matthew and their struggles with life and love. Though I felt
there was often more telling than showing, like a good mix, the story enfolds the different elements of characters and faith
into a satisfying dessert.
Faith element: medium, well integrated
DRIFTWOOD LANE A Nantucket Love Story By Denise Hunter ISBN
978-1-59554-800-9 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Meredith already felt she'd been deserted by her father as a child. With
the death of her father and his wife, she can't let her young siblings suffer, even though she doesn't know them. Leaving
behind her job and life in St. Louis, Meredith travels to Nantucket to be take guardianship of her siblings. Ben, Max and
Noelle are in such pain from their loss. How can she help them when she doesn't know the first thing about children—especially
grieving ones?
In steps handyman Jake. She doesn't know he is her sibling's uncle or
that he returned to see if she is a suitable guardian. He doesn't figure on Meredith being a caring, loving guardian or that
his heart needs a guardian, too.
Can these two break through layers of hurt and secrets to a healing that
will bind them together as a family?
I struggled with liking Meredith, struggled with some of her decisions
the kids so needed to be part of, struggled because I couldn't help but see things from their point of view. For all my “issues”
I had a hard time putting this book down, finishing the same day I started it.
The story shows how flawed and wounded people can be touched by God's
healing grace and move into a place of healing and wholeness. It shows how two people can grow by reaching outside their comfort
zones in order to meet the needs of three orphan kids. It shows that, after all, love does make the world go round when it
starts in the heart of God.
The ending was beautifully done and left me with a smile of satisfaction.
Faith element: medium to high
THE INFLUENZA BOMB Time Scene Investigators (TSI) By Paul McCusker
and Walt Larimore MD ISBN 978-1-4165-6975-6 Howard Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
It has happened again, an outbreak of a disease not readily identified.
Can the 1918 Spanish Flu really have reappeared? The outbreaks are causing devastation, drawing together the TSI team for
answers. Each question answered only leads to so many more and the direction of the fast-spreading nightmare is mired in a
horrifying history. Can the TSI team discover the antidote before earth's population is completely decimated?
A fast-paced story combining elements of history, CSI, espionage, adventure
and a mystery that seems just beyond the reach of the TSI investigators...or is it? The faith element is low key, but deftly
woven into the plot along with an exploration of forgiveness.
Note: I was not comfortable with the handling of Mark's domestic situation
and had trouble lining it up with Scripture. Still, his domestic story is an important, though a side issue, of this
intricate and thoroughly engaging mystery.
A MATTER OF CHARACTER The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs By Robin
Lee Hatcher ISBN 978-310-25807-0 Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
1918
Richard Terrell was a bad man out of history, fashioned from the stories
told by the father of Daphne's sister-in-law. Daphne used the stories as the bases for her books of purple prose adventure
books and was quite proud of her accomplishments as D. B Morgan. At least until Joshua Crawford takes a job at the local Bethlehem
Springs, Idaho paper in order to find D. B. Morgan and prove all those stories untrue.
But were they? As Joshua and Daphne meet, sparks fly and not just over
what has been written in her dime novels. Can they come to terms with the past, the future, their faith...and their attraction
to one another?
What a fun novel and what a perfect wrap up to the The Sisters of Bethlehem
Springs series! The story and the characters, all told with a subtle sense of humor, made it difficult to put down the book
until I'd hit that last page. Then I sighed. I sighed because I was sad to bid this series good-bye and sighed with satisfaction
at the perfect conclusion to the book and the series.
Readers can read each book alone, but I highly recommend this series
from beginning to end. Fun, entertaining and with characters not easily forgotten.
Faith element: medium. Faith is an integral part of the lives of the
characters.
SING: A NOVEL OF COLORADO Homeward Trilogy #2 By Lisa T Bergren ISBN
978-1-4347-6707-3 David C Cook Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Moira St. Clair has found her niche singing in Paris. She has adoring
fans, a suitable frame for her talent and lives a lavish life-style. But when her manager absconds with her funds, Moira must
find a way to earn her way, in doing so she finds her way back to America, but not alone. Can she find her way back not just
to Colorado and her sister Odessa, but also to the faith she left behind?
Odessa never figured that winter could be such a hard taskmaster, killing
off so many of their prize horses—enough to put their ranching enterprise at risk, but is their financial risk more
than the danger from an old adversary?
Before he died, Dominic's dad told him to watch over his sisters. Dominic
hasn't done such a good job, leaving each to their own devices. In fact, he hasn't done such a good job of taking care of
himself either. Will he be able to make he way back to his sisters? More important, will he ever let go and let God?
The first of the series was a solid read, with good characters and story
that moved and in a beautiful location. This book deepens the characters, adds to the story and leaves the reader with
some strands of the plot thread tied up, but with more to go. This book ends with that pause before everything is brought
together in the next in the series.
I recommend you start with the first book to add depth to the characters
and plot.
Faith element: medium
THE NARROW PATH By Gail Sattler ISBN 978-1-4267-0237-2 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Clint Walker
When the church in Piney Meadows hires Miranda, a Mennonite preacher's daughter,
help them create and produce a Christmas Program to reach their community, church leaders assume she is a conservative, traditional
Mennonite. Miranda assumes Piney Meadows is progressive in attitude. As Miranda steps off the plane, it becomes apparent that
everyone needs to adjust their expectations.
Will Ted and the folks of Piney Meadows accommodate their plain,
simple lifestyle to caring Miranda, who loves everything red and wears her heart on her sleeve? Is romance possible between
traditional Ted and the forward-thinking Miranda?
The author's familiarity with Mennonite idiom and cuisine adds
an authentic feel to the story. The quick pace of the book makes it hard to put down. A wonderful read for those who enjoy
romance novels, and even for those who usually prefer other kinds of fiction.
Also, the use of a modern woman
in a traditional Mennonite community as the background helps readers consider their own faith and church. I was left thinking
about what things in my church were important traditions, and what changes our church would be willing to make to reach out
to the unchurched in our community.
Faith element: High
THE RIGHT CALL Sophie Trace Trilogy #3 By Kathy Herman ISBN
978-4347-6784-4 David C Cook Reviewer Carrie Padgett
THE RIGHT CALL is the final installment of Kathy Herman's Sophie Trace
trilogy.
Ethan Langley and Vanessa Jessup are falling in love. They've had a long
distance relationship and are looking forward to the summer so they can decide if their romance is meant to be. Vanessa's
mother Brill Jessup is the police chief in the western Tennessee hamlet of Sophie Trace. Random violence leaves several dead
in the small town. Chief Jessup and her family, including Vanessa's new boyfriend, are pulled into danger.
The story's fast pace builds suspense. Herman's characters are realistic
and grapple with current issues such as teen pregnancy, gambling addictions, and even how authentic and transparent believers
are to be with each other.
Although THE RIGHT CALL is part of a series, it stands alone well. Enough
history is given to help the reader connect with the current story, but not so much as to overwhelm.
For a reader looking for an engrossing book, THE RIGHT CALL is the right
call.
Caution: There is some violence with bloodshed but it is not graphic.
Faith element: High. Characters talk about their faith and pray.
THE PROMISE OF MORNING At Home in Beldon Grove #2 By Ann Shorey ISBN
978-0-8007-3333-9 Revell Reviewer Casey Pitts
Devastating circumstances bring Ellie and Matthew Craig to their knees.
Ellie finds herself in turmoil after the deaths of her young children and rumors about her estranged father. When her husband,
pastor of the local church, is thrust into controversy, an influential member of the community convinces him to step down
from the pulpit. How can Ellie cope with any more uncertainty? Will God allow more tragedy to touch her life?
The hardships of one family’s survival on the frontier mirror life
today. Ellie cares for her ailing uncle and tends to the farm chores during her husband’s absence. Town gossip and worry
only intensify a difficult situation. Just when she thinks that she can bear no more, God touches her life in a spectacular
way.
THE PROMISE OF MORNING offers hope through the story of a woman’s
pain and how God reveals Himself to her. Discover how faith and prayer can carry you from heartache to healing.
Faith Element: High
WHO DO I LEAN ON? A Yada Yada House of Hope Novel By Neta Jackson ISBN
978-1-59554-525-1 Thomas Nelson Reviewer LouAnn Miller
Gabby has been through so much. Her husband abandoned
her, took her boys away and left her homeless. Then her mother passes away and leaving more sorrow in her life.
An
unexpected inheritance from her mother's estate gives her the idea of opening a much needed transitional housing building
of apartments for homeless mothers and their children. There was so much to consider. Can her dream really come true?
Meanwhile
she expects a fight in a custody for her boys. Worse, her estranged husband's gambling debts pile up and he gets entangled
with a rogue cop.
WHO DO I LEAN ON brings in the lovable, memorable characters of the Yada Yada Prayer
Group entwined into the new characters of the House of Hope series.
This continuing story in the House of Hope
series is an unforgettable story of growing faith, life challenges and difficult decisions. If you loved the Yada Yada Prayer
Group series, this series will keep you drawn in, and wanting more!
Faith element: High
LOVE IS MONUMENTAL Walk in the park #2 By Annalisa Daughety ISBN
978-1-60260-694-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Turning 30, Vicki wonders why, like her friends, she can't find Mr. Right.
When she meets history professor Thatcher Torrey she wonders “if,” especially once he asks her out for dinner.
She's ready for a date. He wants a research assistant. So begins a dance that leads Vicki and Thatcher to reach out not just
to one another, but also inside to find the truth of who they are, where they are heading and what God has yet to teach them
about life and love.
Just when their relationship takes a positive turn, Thatcher's past raises
a head that may destroy it all...or bring them all joy beyond imagining. A story of heartache and hope, forgiveness and faith.
Sweet story that wraps up with a sniff and a smile. The perfect movie
ending.
Faith element: low, but important
SPRING'S RENEWAL Seasons of Sugarcreek #2 By Shelley Shepard Gray ISBN
978-0-06-185236-7 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Clara loves teaching in her close-knit Amish community, but wishes for
more—husband and family. But she has come to terms with the realization that, with her disfigurement from a childhood
fire, it is unlikely any man will see past her scars. That is, until she meets Tim, who has come to help out on his uncle's
farm. They connect in a way that gives her hope, hope that just maybe....
But when she learns that Tim has a sweetheart back home, will her hope
of happily-ever-after die? Will new revelations and horrifying events draw her and Tim together or divide them forever?
The author caught well the turmoil of a woman dealing with physical problems.
It is something I understand, the hesitation, the desire that others see beneath the imperfect shell to the heart. The love
story is tender, showing there are (and there really are) Godly men who see the beauty in spite of imperfections in facial
or other features.
The story flowed smoothly, immersing the reader into the setting and
drawing that reader into the lives of the characters.
The larger print made reading a pleasure.
Looking forward to Book #3.
Faith element: low, but well integrated and very present
BLOOD RANSOM Mission Hope #1 By Lisa Harris ISBN 978-0-310-31905-4 Zondervan
Publishing Reviewer Clint Walker
Many authors write stories of romance in a small town. Other writers tell
romances about a time long ago in a land far away. Lisa Harris has attempted something quite different in latest novel.
BLOOD RANSOM tells the story of several lives that begin to intersect in the in the heart of Africa right before an election.
It is a story that includes a romantic storyline, but most of the book is a fast paced story of intrigue.
Young
Joseph Komboli discovers Ghost Soldiers invading his village. The Ghost Soldiers kill some, and drag others into slavery.
With a digital camera he has been given by a Westerner, he documents the atrocities.
After Joseph connects with American humanitarian Natalie Sinclair, and
after she takes the injured Joseph to a clinic to see Dr. Chad Talcott, Chad, Natalie, and Joseph race to communicate the
truth of the atrocities to Joseph's people, to do so before the election and before Joseph’s relatives lose their lives.
The
novel attempts to take on global issues such as modern slavery, injustice, and tyranny from a Christian perspective. Chad
and Natalie become role models for us in how to live like Jesus in an unfamiliar land filled with greed and indiscriminate
violence. I kept thinking about how the political situation in this fictional country mirrors many similar situations in the
recent past and today in Africa. Finally, I appreciated the quick pace of the novel. The book grabbed my attention from the
start, and I had a hard time putting it down.
A drawback of the story is the positioning of two white folks from
the same Northwestern state as the hero and heroine. I hope in future novels in this series have a little less of a messianic
and patriarchal viewpoint.
Faith element: medium.
REFUGE ON CRESCENT HILL By Melanie Dobson ISBN 978-1-8254-2590-5 Kregel
Publications Review by Cynthia Hickey
Camden Bristow is flat broke with nowhere to live. Remembering the
place she was happiest as a child, she heads to her grandmother's home in Etherton, Ohio. Upon arrival, she discovers her
grandmother has passed away and left her the dilapidated centuries old house. Camden is determined to use her inheritance
to better her life. She has no idea the plans God has in store for her.
There are others as interested in the
house as she is. Within the crumbling walls is hidden a secret, one that will change Camden's life and the future of the house.
But can Camden hold on to the building, and her life, long enough to find the treasure? And why does the handsome Alex Yates
seem so determined to help her when the city wants the house torn down? Camden finds way more than she bargained for in her
grandmother's hometown.
REFUGE ON CRESCENT HILL takes the reader into a dark, yet hopeful spot in America's history,
and emerges victorious on the other side. The faith level is high, without being preachy, and there are enough twists and
turns to keep the reader turning the pages.
SCATTERED PETALS Texas Dreams #2 By Amanda Cabot ISBN 978-0-8007-3325-4 Revell
Books Reviewed by Casey Pitts
Priscilla Morton wrestles with pain of the present when her adventure
to visit her brother takes a terrible turn. Only faith and time can heal her broken spirit, and Zach Webster is willing to
offer both. Intense emotions overflow from one page to the next as Priscilla tries to settle into a new rhythm after incredible
loss. But when Zach leaves her side to confront an unresolved past, Priscilla is left vulnerable and alone.
Set in the culturally diverse Texas hill country, Cabot also reveals
struggles between matchmaking and true love when Priscilla makes friends and finds solace through ministry to others. The
images of relationships weave a beautiful picture of love that transcends circumstances.
The descriptions of Priscilla’s inner turmoil and path to healing
touched my heart. I can hardly wait for the next story in the Texas Dreams collection.
Faith Element: High
FAITHFUL HEAT Angel of Mercy Series #2 By Al Lacy ISBN 978-1-60142-272-9 Multnomah
Reviewed by Casey Pitts
Dottie Harper never expected to fear the man she loves, but when her
husband returns from violent fighting in the Civil War, she is forced to make serious decisions. Will their family survive
the battle still raging inside his imagination? Will she be able to protect her children from his fury?
Her sister Breanna, a trained nurse, travels her own journey
of decision, facing potentially fatal disease, outlaws and dangerous passage across the frontier with a wagon train. Faith
in God and the support of the Christian community help these two women through life-altering circumstances.
Families across the nation experience the physical and emotional effects
of war, violence, and illness. Al Lacy depicts real situations with vivid accuracy. My heart raced as I shared every harrowing
experience with Dottie and Breanna and reflected on God’s sovereignty. Perfect for historical fiction fans!
Faith Element: High
ALMOST FOREVER By Deborah Raney ISBN 978-1-4165-9991-3 Howard
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Bryn loved volunteering at the homeless shelter, but her firefighter
husband had problems with her being there in light of a recent situation. But with her husband gone so much, Bryn needed something
to fill her time and volunteering at the homeless shelter filled something within her. He didn't need to know, did he?
But when a fire destroys the homeless shelter and takes the lives of
several firefighters, including that of her husband, Bryn is devastated. She is also haunted with a nagging memory, a secret
that could destroy herself and all those around her, especially it will destroy the tenuous relationship she's forged with
Garrett who lost his wife in the same fire.
Can Bryn find healing and wholeness until she knows the truth and what
will that do to the wound not yet healed of the small town that lost so much in the fire?
A story that has you reaching for the tissue, usual for Raney's books,
that has you wrapped up in the characters, that has you challenging your own responses to similar situations in our own lives,
and that has you reaching for the only real hope—forgiveness in Christ.
A story that stays with you long after you put down the book. Highly
recommended for discussion groups.
Faith element: high
ONCE IN A BLUE MOON By Leanna Ellis ISBN 978-08054-4988-4 B&H
Publishing Group Reviewer Narda McCarthy
Brynda Seymour (Bryn), writes about death for a living. She has written
obits since her school days. One day while on assignment from the newspaper she meets an odd man who asks her to write his
biography and who assures her that there is a conspiracy to hide vital information from the public, is sure someone is out
to kill him and claims he knew her mother.
This encounter awakens her desire to know more about the woman who disappeared
from her life when Bryn was a child. Watching old home movies, she discovers the same odd man who has asked her to write his
biography. This discovery sends her in a quest for knowledge and atonement to the city of Marfa in the far west of Texas,
where she meets the only man capable of making her forget her fears and give her a security she did not know she craved.
Bryn
needs to confront the secret she has so carefully kept since she was nine years old and find out who was the strange man in
black that visited her home the night her mother disappeared. Yet, the fear of losing the love and esteem of others paralyzes
her. Will she find out who her father was? Will her heart find the peace that has eluded her for so many years?
Intrigued,
the reader will read with great curiosity until the answers are revealed.
Element of faith: Low.
ABIGAIL The Wives of King David #2 By Jill Eileen Smith ISBN
978-0-8007-3321-6 Revell Books Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Abigail, bold, beautiful, brave, and destined
to change history. Married to the foolish and mean Nabal, Abigail holds strong to her faith and undertakes a bold move when
Nabal refuses to give the soon-to-be King David and his men some food. Abigail takes the provisions and begs David to spare
the lives of her people.
David is immediately captivated by the woman and heeds her wishes. When Nabal dies,
David takes the wise Abigail as his wife. Abigail is leery at first, believing David may treat her as poorly as her first
husband did. Soon, she realizes why David is a "Man After God's Own Heart."
ABIGAIL is a wonderful love story,
not only between a man and a woman, but a people and their God. Through lean times and times of plenty, David and Abigail
must keep their people together, and their faith strong. Readers will never look at Abigail's story in the Bible in quite
the same way again. A ten on the faith scale.
AS YOUNG AS WE FEEL By Melody Carlson ISBN 978-1-4347-6497-3 David
C Cook Reviewer Casey Pitts
Drawn together by a common name, four Lindas mend relationships at a
small town class reunion. The sudden death of a classmate causes each one to evaluate her circumstances. Divorce, illness,
and caring for ailing parents have replaced the frivolity of junior high school. Can their friendship be rekindled after years
of separation and difficult situations?
So many people dread class reunions because of judgment of former childish
decisions. I realized that my classmates from the 1980’s are now middle aged just like me. Though we face a variety
of forty-something struggles, we are “As Young as we Feel.” Melody Carlson offers healing for the past and compassion
for the future.
A story of renewed friendship and encouragement for women.
Faith Element: Moderate, faith in action
GLAEN A Novel Message on Romance, Love and Relating By Fred R.
Lybrand ISBN 978-0-578-04652-5 B&B Media Group, Inc: The Barnabas Agency Reviewer Casey Pitts
Jennah is surrounded by broken relationships. An obscure college class
taught by an unusual professor named Glaen provides her with the opportunity to construct a new paradigm for relating to those
of the opposite sex. The premise for the paradigm stems from observation of both casual and romantic relationships. This Socratic
approach leads Jennah to discover some guiding principles in successful relationships.
Readers journey through Jennah’s college project and draw practical
advice. While a few scripture verses are presented, the story relies more on life experiences to develop a relational world-view.
This book offers great opportunities to discuss topics of courting, dating, divorce, and physical relationships without being
overly "preachy."
This book will make you reconsider your views on casual dating and offer
realistic approaches to healthy relationships. Thought provoking.
Faith element: Low
IN HARM'S WAY Heroes of Quantico #3 By Irene Hannon ISBN 978-0-8007-3312-4 Revell
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Rachel just wants to get the Raggedy Ann doll out of the ice and snow
of the parking lot. Some child might be missing it. But when she picks it up, Rachel has a panic attack. Her response leads
her to the FBI where she expects they'll laugh at her story?
Agent Nick Bradley's first response is to dismiss Rachel, except she
is anything but a nut case. It was obvious she'd rather be anyplace else but in FBI offices.
When a kidnapping reveals a tenuous connection, Nick and Rachel must
figure out what her response means before lives are lost--one them hers.
IN HARM'S WAY draws on the characters of the earlier Heroes of Quantico
and adds more mystery, suspense, faith...and love.
A story that captures the reader with characters you don't want to let
go when all the story threads are wrapped up.
Couldn't put it down. Hope this isn't the end of this series.
Faith element: medium
THEY ALMOST ALWAYS COME HOME By Cynthia Ruchti ISBN 978-1-4267-0238-9 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Clint Walker
Libby is not your typical Christian literature heroine. She is grieving, unhappy
in her marriage, and facing an empty nest. When her husband ends up not making it home from his wilderness trip in time, there
is a part of her that wishes he would not even come home. However, after Libby and her friend Jen discover Libby’s husband
Greg’s car is missing, they fear for his well-being.
Soon Libby, her father-in-law, and her best friend head to find her husband
in the Canadian Boundary Waters wilderness. Will they find Greg? Will he be alive? Is he even out in the wilderness? Furthermore,
will this motley crew of two-middle aged women and an aging man with prostate problems survive their impromptu wilderness
excursion?
This book is fast-paced and exciting. It works both as a mystery and as a romance. The plot keeps
the readers turning the pages and touches the heart.
What I loved about this book was the realism of the characters
in the story. None of them were perfect, and many of them were deeply flawed. Each of them had some area of their faith they
were struggling with. Some of the characters could be pretty sarcastic at times, which I found endearing. I felt like each
person in the story could be a friend, a neighbor, or a member of my church.
Faith element: High without being
preachy
WILDFLOWER BRIDE Montana Marriages #3 By Mary Connealy ISBN
978-1-60260-144-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Wayne rescues Glowing Sun or Abby, as she insists on being called since
her adoptive Flathead people have been massacred by a band of outlaws. Wayne refuses to leave the feisty too-beautiful-for-her-own-good
woman when he is summoned to the side of his father whose accident has left the old coot bed-fast.
But Wayne goes only out of Christian duty not figuring both he and Abby,
who finds it stifling to re-enter the white man's world, are still in danger. Wayne falls hard for the woman who can wield
a knife faster and more accurately than anyone he knows and has no intention of being owned by anyone. Trying to deal with
his disagreeable dad who so mistreated him as a child, fearing Abby will run straight into danger at the slightest provocation,
and running a ranch has Wayne relying on his faith as he seeks to sort out his personal relationships and the danger that
surrounds them all.
Can he and Abby work together to discover the truth before it is too
late and can Abby learn to love at least one white man—him?
Old West mixes with romance, humor and faith in a, happily ever after,
mix that leaves pleasant memories and a smile on the face. Abby is my kind of heroine. Hope to see her and Wayne in further
adventures.
Faith element: medium to high
TOO CLOSE TO HOME By Lynette Eason ISBN 978-0-8007-3369-8 Revell
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jenna just wanted a relationship with her dad, but he was busy chasing
down the criminal murdering girls her age. She understood, yet she needed him as well. And she turned to the Internet.
Connor didn't know how to reach his daughter. All he wanted to do was
to keep her safe. One way was to get the monster who was kidnapping and killing teenage girls—like Jenna. The case is
baffling in so many ways and goes far beyond the MO of simply a serial killer.
Samantha Cash is an expert on the computer. If anyone can find an online
thread that ties the cases together, it is her. The more threads the team of investigators unravels, the scarier the case
becomes. Will they find answers before Samantha, Connor, even worse, Jenna, pays the ultimate price for failure?
A nice balance of character development and story, mystery and romance.
The mystery is fast-paced, has some nice twists, leaving the biggest, of course, for the last. Female characters are strong
and do not give up or give in. The conclusion does a good job of fitting all the different pieces of the puzzle together,
leaving the reader satisfied with the outcome.
The faith element is clear, but stops short of preaching. The faith element
is definitely high.
This story has a bit more of a harsher edge than those of Henderson
or Hannon in which romance ranks a little higher in the plot development. This is said only to suggest this book in contrast
to those of Henderson and Hannon (both favorites of mine, I might add) might find more of a male audience, who prefer a little
less romance and a bit more grit.
Can't wait for book two in the series.
GENOA BAY By Bette Nordberg ISBN 978-0-8254-6296-2 Monarch Books:
Kregel Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Widow Brandy Beauchamp inherits a dilapidated house in Genoa Bay,
the place she was happiest. With high expectations, and a desire for a fresh start, she takes her daughter from Florida to
Canada. She wasn't expecting the huge job ahead of her, but sets to it with determination and a firm belief that this is where
God wants her. When a local land developer makes her an outrageous proposal on purchasing her land, she declines. The man
is persistent, often putting Brandy and her daughter in danger to accomplish his goal. With God's guidance and the support
of new friends, Brandy is determined to win the fight.
Often, following God's will is difficult, but the reader
will cheer as Brandy struggles to do just that. GENOA BAY is a wonderful women's fiction story with a dash of romance for
those romantically inclined, and a sprinkle of suspense to keep things hopping.
An 8 on the faith scale, the
message in GENOA BAY is pronounced enough for the reader to get the message, yet not strong enough to feel preached at. A
wonderful read with "real" characters women can relate to.
THE GOLDEN CROSS The Heirs of Cahira O'Conner #2 By Angela Elwell
Hunt ISBN 978-0-307-45877-3 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Casey Pitts
Aiden O’Conner trades a life of dishonesty for a future of grace
when a wealthy mapmaker discovers her talent for art. Her pursuit of a better life leads Aiden down a difficult path. After
disguising herself as a servant boy, she accompanies her benefactor on a voyage to chart new islands and record their flora
and fauna with watercolors, expanding her gifts and more importantly, her view of God’s design.
The famous cartographer guides her blossoming talent and faith until
a tragic encounter with unfriendly natives separates them forever. How will Aiden survive a ship full of sailors without a
guardian?
The descriptions of places and events in this novel are vivid and breathtaking,
while not losing sight of the inner turmoil Aiden suffers as she learns to forgive herself and embrace true love. The message
of God’s love weaves through every page in subtle ways and through natural conversations.
An unique story among historical fiction novels.
Faith element: moderate to high
THE CLOUDS ROLL AWAY By Sibella Giorello ISBN: 978-1-59554-534-3 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer LouAnn Miller
Raleigh Harmon, a forensic geologist for the FBI returns to her home town of
Richmond, VA after a disciplinary transfer sent her to Seattle, WA. Her homecoming wasn’t quite what she had expected.
Her first case after returning to Richmond, VA involves a cross burning
at a celebrity’s home. She begins to put her forensic skills, bravery and dedication as a FBI agent, to solve this case.
Between this seeming hate crime and her own personal challenges, Raleigh grows in her faith as she struggles to prove herself
as a good agent, while caring for her Mom whose sanity is in question, as well as trying to figure out her feelings for a
former boyfriend.
Readers will find themselves caring deeply for Raleigh in her plight
of working a difficult job where the “rules” aren’t quite clear. They will feel her many emotional “compartments”
that make up her life.
This book is a well researched, full of twists and turns. It’s
a must-read for the suspense fiction reader.
Faith Element: Medium
A DISTANT MELODY Wings of Glory #1 By Sarah Sundin ISBN 978-0-8007-3421-3 Revell
Reviewer Casey Pitts
Sarah Sundin beautifully weaves historic details into the love story
of a humble hero and an heiress betrothed to a man she doesn’t love. A chance meeting between Allie and Walt kindles
a tender relationship during the fierceness of World War II. Over the course of months, the two correspond through the unpredictable
mail system leading to misunderstanding and secrets. Can faith mend two hearts separated by uncounted miles?
Readers will experience pain and fear as seen from a bomber crew in both
successful and failed missions. Then, glimpse life on the homefront, where family and friends face the reality of rationing
and newsreels.
A well researched story that brings enlightenment to the era without
the stuffiness of a textbook. A real treat for historical fiction lovers!
Classic story of faith. Faith Element: High
HERO'S RANSOM By Diane & David Munson ISBN 978-0-9825355-0 Micah
House Media Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
Everything CIA agent Bo Rider works on is so classified he is alarmed
when the director’s new assistant asks if he has heard from Solo. Solo is the code name of his connection deep in China’s
government, and no one is supposed to know about him.
Archaeologist Amber Worthing has photographed the 2,000-year-old mummy
with its ancient writings, and tucked the memory chip in a safe place, but security police around China’s Taklamakan
Desert dig are restless, and have ordered them to their tents. Homesick for her young son, Amber escapes the claustrophobic
tent for a breath of cool night air, and witnesses a secret rocket launch.
The next day she is arrested for espionage.
From page one, the authors draw us into this tale of international intrigue
as Bo seeks to contact Solo, tries to locate the American archaeologist, and hunts for the leak in the agency. And all their
communications satellites seem to have been compromised.
What a trip. And well worth it. Faith element: low-medium.
IMAGINARY JESUS By Matt Mikalatos ISBN 978-1-4143-3563-6 Tyndale
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
What Jesus walks with you? The comfortable Jesus who's always there,
but doesn't demand you do anything or make any changes? The legalistic Jesus who watches every move you make in case you make
a mistake? What about the Jesus who just goes along to get along? Ho often have we, as Christians, remade Jesus in our own
image or what we want Him to be? How “true” is the Jesus we worship?
In this sort-of fantasy story, Mikalatos goes on a journey to find the
real Jesus. Along the way, he finds his comfortable assumptions challenged and his heart torn. Does he, after all, really
WANT to know the real, the Biblical Jesus?
A sometimes laugh-out loud narrative that takes the reader on a wild
journey and leads to a hard truth—who Jesus truly is.
Recommended for Christians and non-Christians alike.
ONE TRUE LOVE Belles of Timber Creek #3 By Lori Copeland ISBN
978-0-06-136494-4 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Copper is the last one left. Her two friends have found their mates,
but there is no one for Copper. Still, she loves teaching and can bury herself in her profession. At least she could until
the little schoolhouse catches fire and her heroic rescue of two children seriously injures her ankle.
Before she realizes what is going on, Copper finds herself on the wagon
train heading to Colorado and toward the only doctor who might be able to help. The problem for Copper is wagon master Josh
Redlin who irritates her past reasoning.
Can Copper learn that God's ways are not hers and that maybe Josh isn't
the nemesis she thinks?
Copper is not your nice little heroine. She is irritating, self-centered—but
doesn't know it. She is on a collision course with God, herself and trust. Maybe she irritated me because I am too much like
the stubborn Copper. But as in Copper's case, God isn't finished with me yet. Something we all need to learn.
A satisfying wrap-up to the Belles of Timber Creek series.
Faith element: medium to high
RAVEN'S LADDER By Jeffrey Overstreet ISBN 978-1-4000-7467-9 WaterBrook
Press Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Still following the lure of Auralia's colors and the voice of The Keeper,
King Cal-raven fears for his people. When evil bursts from the ground beneath their feet, tumbling the walls of their fortress,
the King is forced to find a new haven for his people. A New Abascar. But more danger looms when his enemies, the Bel Amicans
discover the colors of Auralia and try to lure Cal-raven's people with promises of riches and luxury. Cal-raven must rely
on Cyndere, the queen of Bel Amican's daughter. Together they gather an unlikely group to save their people.
As
Cal-raven's faith in the Keeper's words are tested, he finally begins to see a glimmer of hope on the horizon. If he can keep
his eyes on the vision he sees in Auralia's colors.
RAVEN'S LADDER is a story of faith tested to the max, and
the hope that emerges at the end. Deep within the poetic language and skillful crating of Cal-raven's world, Jeffrey Overstreet
has drawn a world so believable the reader has no problem envisioning the many varied creatures that inhabit the land. With
a skillful pen, Overstreet shows a world that exists in another dimension. A true treat to fantasy fans.
A nine
on the faith scale.
SECRETS Glenbrooke series #1 By Robin Jones Gunn ISBN 978-1-60142-273-6 Multnomah Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Jessica was on the run. She found a person who offered her a job teaching
high school, but when she arrived in town, as an accident victim, she discovered her one contact is also in the hospital.
Not the best of beginnings. Jessica wants to be part of the small town Glenbrooke, but can she do so and keep her secret?
And what about firefighter Kyle who reaches out and touches her heart.
Can the residents of the small town not only make Jessica welcome, but also help her find the truest love of all?
The faith element of SECRETS is high and is an integral part of the resolution
of the story of romance, faith and truth. A sweet romance with characters you wish were your neighbors.
SONGS OF DELIVERANCE By Marylynn Griffith ISBN 978-0-8007-3279-0 Revell
Books Reviewer Narda McCarthy
Zeely, Grace, Brian and Ron, successful professionals, have been called upon
by their mentor and protector. She is dying and wants them to return and continue her labor. Though they respond to the calling
of love and duty, the price is high. New wounds are inflicted to their already fragile and sensitive hearts. Memories and
regrets plague their minds.
Will Zeely see clearly God's perfect plan for her life and not the plan that her
mother mandated? Will Brian discover who his parents are? Will Ron journey to the core of his mother's racial hate? What is
the relationship between Brian and Grace?
So many questions and so much pain behind them. The heart touched by
Griffith's prose will look for answers that will bring peace and resolution to their journey.
Element of faith:
Medium.
MORNING'S REFRAIN Songs of Alaska #2 By Tracie Peterson ISBN
978-0-7642-0152-3 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Dalton has grown up in Alaska, safe from his mother's first husband's
family. But when he demands answers about his past, everything changes. Will a trip back to Kansas City with his older sister,
who'd also escaped the family menace, provide answers or just more questions?
Will leaving Phoebe at the early part of their attraction push her into
the waiting arms of his friend Yuri?
A sweet romance with the warmth and readability so natural to Tracie's
style. The characters draw us into their lives making it difficult to lay down the book until that last page.
Delightful sequel to DAWN'S PRELUDE.
Faith element: high
THE COUNTRY HOUSE COURTSHIP Regency Inspirational Romance By Linore
Rose Burkard ISBN 978-0-7369-2799-4 Harvest House Review by Cynthia Hickey
Beatrice Forsythe wants
what her sister has. An influential husband, a position in society, and a beautiful home and family. She's headstrong enough
to make her plans and work toward her goal. Surely her sister's connections can land her in the middle of London society.
Then two men enter her life, one with all the appearances of being exactly what she wants; the other a handsome curate she'd
made a rash promise to years before.
Then tragedy strikes Beatrice's sister, and her life hangs in the balance.
Each of Beatrice's beaus true colors are shown. Can Beatrice give up her well-laid plans for a man of true character and love?
THE
COUNTRY HOUSE COURTSHIP is a delightful continuation of Ariana and Beatrice's “lives and loves,” where true value
is shown to be more priceless than any mis-placed dream. For lovers of Regency romance, this is a story that will warm your
heart.
An 8 on the faith scale.
BENEATH A SOUTHERN SKY By Deborah Raney ISBN 978-0-307-45876-6 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Daria's heart had been shredded when her beloved husband died in a fire
while trying to treat natives in Columbia, South America. The mission board did everything possible to check out the situation,
but all that was left was Nathan's burnt watch. Daria shielded the one reminder of her husband, the child that grew within
her. For the sake of their child, Daria knew she had to go on. Returning home, Daria grieved, then moved on. Had her baby
girl, found and job and fell in love with, Cole, her veterinarian boss. He loved not only her, but also her daughter. Their
new life together was a blessing from God. Or was it?
What happens when their perfect world is disrupted by the news: NATHAN
CAMFIELD FOUND ALIVE?
Daria finds herself married to two men whom she dearly loves. What is
the future for her, the two men she loves, the daughter who only knows Cole as daddy and the baby Daria carries? Only grace
and God can unravel the threads to give each a future of healing and hope.
I reviewed this book when it was first released several years ago. It
was just as heart-wrenching on this second reading.
This is story that doesn't provide pat answers, but does show the heartbreaking
choices many have to make every day. The difference? A story that ends, not in the courts and with bitterness, but in brokenness,
following God's leading to a place of forgiveness, acceptance and love.
Faith element: high
A COUSIN'S CHALLENGE Indiana Cousins #3 By Wanda E Brunstetter ISBN
978-1-60260-062-1 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jolene, who lost her hearing sometime earlier, returns to her Indiana Amish
community to teach hearing impaired students. She finds herself teaching sign to not only her students and family, but other
members of the community, including Lonnie who recently lost his hearing due to an accident.
Jake is home from Montana because his father needs his help. He doesn't
understand the grudge Ella carries against him. Jolene's brother Andrew is drawn to Eunice, but her gossipy mouth keeps her
from having friends. Add to this mix assumptions about who cares for who and you have a sweet romantic mix-up that needs serious
untangling before romance can turn to love.
A character-driven story with twists that keep the reader reading until
the satisfying conclusion of forgiveness, hope and love.
Faith Element: High
NO DISTANCE TOO FAR Home to Blessings #2 By Lauraine Snelling ISBN
978-0-7642-0610-8 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Astrid has no desire to go to Africa as a medical missionary. Now that
she has her medical degree, she wants to return home to Blessing to help her sister-in-law build a hospital. But she feels
God calling her to begin training to go to Africa. Maybe the term would be for only two years, but what will the time do to
the needs in Blessings and her relationship, if there is one, with Joshua?
Seeking God's peace, Astrid takes one step at a time. But when she is
called home for an emergency will she find she cannot leave again, will God really show her the next step and is she willing
to follow no matter where He leads?
A story about letting go and letting God, trusting God will reveal the
next step in His time and way, if we're willing to trust Him.
Of course, NO DISTANCE TOO FAR is rich with the wonderful characters
of Blessing who through tragedy and triumph, disagreements and all else, seek to work together to move ahead as they seek
God's best for themselves and their town. Blessing fans will want to grab this new book about this wonderful town. After reading
NO DISTANCE TOO FAR, others may wish to “catch up” with not only the first of this series, but the other Blessing
series that preceded it.
A story with warmth, truth and heart.
Faith element: high
WHITE AS SNOW Mysterious Ways By Donna Westover Gallup ISBN
978-0-9759619-4-0 Cladach Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Charlie's grandfather, the only living relative he has left, has fallen
ill and seems to be dying. At ten years of age, Charlie realizes he is all that is keeping himself and his grandfather alive
on the Colorado frontier. But the firewood has been depleted along with their food stores and Winter is coming on.
After losing his parents, his grandmother and, now, with his grandfather
not responding, Charlie is convinced God isn't listening any more. He's on his own and has every intention, as scared as he
is, of providing for them both. But when everything goes wrong, including a grizzly attack, Charlie is left with the truth—He
really is alone. After what he's done, will even God help him now?
And who is the stranger who arrives at their door? Can he be trusted?
Are Charlie's secrets about to revealed and will the stranger prove to be friend or foe?
A story of hope and
grace with an unexpected twist that the whole family can enjoy.
Faith element: high
ROCK OF REFUGE Mysterious Ways #2 By Donna Westover Gallup ISBN
978-0-9759619-7-1 Cladach Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Charlie is older and the small farm seems to be closing in on him. He
wants to experience the wider world. Understanding, his grandfather arranges for him to go on a cattle drive. When a lawyer
asks Grandfather to come to Denver to deal with his recently deceased cousin's estate, Grandfather travels on the trail with
Charlie until they arrive in Denver. What they discover in Denver will change their lives forever.
A story of family, friendship and a faith that is tested, tried as Charlie
discovers that God's plan isn't always ours and that we can trust him for today and tomorrow.
Suitable for the whole family to share together.
Faith element: high
IN GREEN PASTURES Mysterious Ways #3 By Donna Westover Gallup ISBN
978-0-9818929-1-7 Cladach Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Charlie has lost his grandfather and his financial circumstances have
changed considerably. But that doesn't make his life easier. In fact, he discovers, more complications with friends and with
family he didn't even know he had.
When he travels to Missouri to check out property he's inherited, he
finds a situation that is at odds with all he's grown up to believe. What is the truth of his past? Will he discover the answers
before more are hurt and before he loses his own life to those who do not want the truth to come to light?
A story of secrets, betrayal, friendship and redemption. A continuation
of Charlie's story that builds on the first two books. While the plot of this book stands on its own, knowing the story from
the first two books gives depth to the story. I like that each book completes the principal story while leaving a thread for
the next in the series.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Note: I really like the size of this series. The books are larger than
a mass media book, but smaller and easier to handle than a traditional trade paper size. Very comfortable.
Faith element: high
BEADED HOPE By Cathy Liggett ISBN 978-1-4143-3212-3 Tyndale
House Publishers Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
I loved this story of three women and a girl. Three very different women
and one very troubled girl.
For different reasons, each decides to join the mission trip to South
Africa sponsored by the Ohio church. One is desperate to reinvent her TV News career; one is bravely masking her inner grief
and wounded marriage; and one is hoping to reestablish a relationship with her rebellious stepdaughter.
They don't expect to have their lives transformed by the beaming faces
of the women and children who face death and starvation every day. And none of them expects the bonding they experience between
each other.
This is absolutely the most touching, most well written women’s
story I have read in a long time. I would give a copy to all my friends—both men and women— if I could. The life-changing
faith element is high.
WILDFLOWERS OF TEREZIN By Robert Elmer ISBN 978-1-4267-0192-4 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Steffen Petersen is a Danish Lutheran Pastor not used to operating outside
his dull, safe existence, preaching regimented sermons, visiting the sick and leaving politics alone. After all, if no one
makes a fuss, the Germans will eventually go away, won't they?
But when Steffen meets the Jewish nurse Hanne, he has to make choices—help
her and the Resistance as does his brother Henning or stay in his comfortable church and watch Danish Jewish citizens be de-humanized
and destroyed. When Steffen moves beyond his comfort zone, he finds danger, conflict with his faith, his feelings and his
duty to God and country. Will his choice cost him everything, including his soul?
A well-research novel that brings a horrific era to life, immersing the
reader in a story of truth, danger...and hope.
Faith element: low, subtle but real
FORGET ME NOT By Vicki Hinze ISBN 978-1-60142-205-7 Multnomah
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
She'd been running for so long and there is no end in sight—until
“they” catch her. For some reason, she isn't murdered. When she regains consciousness, she retains no memory of
the past and her only clues to who she might be is a necklace and a card with the name “Susan.”
She soon learns the necklace and card is a cruel joke on Crossroads Center's
counselor Ben whose wife Susan and son had been murdered. But if she isn't Susan, no matter the remarkable resemblance, who
is she and why is she the target of assassins out to kill her?
Can she and Ben discover answers to the host of mysteries surrounding
them both before one of the attempts on her life is successful? Will her faith be enough for both her and Ben until he finds
his way home to God?
A fast-paced, mystery with believable, if flawed characters. Viewpoints
go from “Susan” and Ben to several of the less desirable characters of the book, entangling diverse threads, which
the author neatly ties up at into a satisfying conclusion.
Faith element: high
HER MOTHER'S HOPE By Francine Rivers ISBN 978-1-4143-1863-9 Tyndale
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
With her mother's approval, Marta ran from her father's domination and
abuse. But as far as she ran, she couldn't shake the guilt of what happened to her delicate, pampered sister and the fear
that leads her to believe she can trust only herself. She brings her fear into her marriage.
Her husband brings pride into the marriage, though he still shares a
living faith. As these two very different people begin to build a life together, can Marta, when she has a delicate daughter,
make sure her daughter is strong and not weak? But at what cost?
Hildie, the delicate daughter, grows up strong, but with the idea her
mother loves her brother and sisters, but hates her. As Hildie's impressions shape her and her own future, will she bow to
adversity or learn to accept love and to lean on not only her strength, but God's?
A multi-layered story that draws us into the heart of the characters,
the era and our own tendencies to trust ourselves and our own experiences, rather than to trust Jesus, to love as He loved
and to realize God has a plan and purpose for each of us that might differ from our own.
This is only half the story. I hope to read more to bring closure to
the story of Hildie and Marta in another book.
Faith element: medium, but very integrated into the fabric of the story.
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD The 23rd Psalm Mysteries By Debbie Viguie ISBN
978-1-4267-0189-4 Abingdon Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Cindy was less than enthusiastic when she headed for her secretary job
at the church. It got much worse when she tripped over a body as she reached for the lights. Her screams brought, Jeremiah,
the rabbi from the synagogue next door to her aid.
But as Cindy seeks to find answers, when bodies stack up, when Easter
seems to be the theme and when she seems to be a key factor, will she and Jeremiah forge a relationship that will help them,
along with detective Mark Walters, find the killer—before Easter Sunday and before she becomes one of the victims?
A fast-paced mystery that twists and turns on relationships and plot
to keep the reader reading until the murder is caught—or is he?--and the story is wrapped up.
The body count adds up. Think Criminal Intent more than CSI with a personal
Jessica Fletcher touch.
Faith element: pretty non-existent. This is the sort of book one used
to find put out by secular publishers. While Easter is the theme, it is only a backdrop of the story, not a statement of faith.
While the book is a good mystery, I do wonder if the faith element grows in successive books in the series.
Still it is nice to enjoy a good, clean mystery with a solid puzzle without
the profane/obscene language or sexual content so prevalent in so many published books.
THIRD TIME'S A CHARM Sister-to-Sister #3 By Virginia Smith ISBN
978-0-8007-3234-9 Revell Books Reviewer Cassie Scheidies
Tori Sanderson's life appears full with dating and a dream job. However,
as Tori's heart begins to open to an amazing guy, she starts to question life, family, and faith.
THIRD TIME'S A CHARM is the final book in the Sister-to-Sister series.
We have learned to love Joan, laugh with Allie, and this is our turn to get to know Tori.
I found this book to be the most enjoyable of the three as Tori has been
presented as the most intriguing of the sisters. That being said, while the blurb on the back of the book appears to be about
Tori finding her father, this is not the case. While this is a very small storyline of the book, I did not enjoy how this
particular storyline wrapped up. Therefore if it had simply been about that plot, I would not have enjoyed the book.
I most enjoyed following Tori as she discovered faith, friendship, and
love while understanding what was truly important in life. I recommend THIRD TIME'S A CHARM to anyone, but it may be
different than you expect.
DREAMS THAT WON'T LET GO By Stacy Hawkins Adams ISBN 978-0-8007-3268-4 Revell
Books Reviewed by Cynthia Hickey
Indigo Burns is getting married to the man of her dreams. Her photography
career is taking off, resulting in shoots around the world. But then her brother and his family move back to Jubilant, Texas,
and old feelings of jealousy and resentment spin her well-laid plans on their axis.
Reuben Burns carries a mountain
of guilt with him stemming from a childhood disaster. Suffering from anxiety and nightmares, he moves back to Jubilant wanting
to fulfill a promise he'd made to his dying mother. Except his sisters want no part of reconciliation after his ten-year absence.
When the youngest sister makes a rash decision that threatens to unravel the family, Indigo and Reuben must set aside their
sibling rivalry to hold the family together.
DREAMS THAT COME AND WON'T LET GO is a story of family strength
and love, God's grace, and letting go of overwhelming jealousy and regret to see God's plan in it all. Book three in the Jubilant
Soul series, DREAMS could very well be Stacy Hawkins Adams's best book yet. A ten on the faith scale.
LOVE FINDS YOU IN HOLIDAY, FLORIDA By Sandra D Bricker ISBN 978-935416-25-8 Summerside
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Cassie planned to go to Holiday, Florida to fix up the vacation place
and return to her life in Boston. But once she arrives she finds she is getting attached to the home she is creating, the
person she is becoming and to the very available Richard Dillon. But will her determined agenda and his secrets keep them
from making the future God has planned?
A sweet humorous romance with dancing and fun and a bit of a mystery
thrown into Christians learning that choices have consequences, that listening, caring and faith can lead to a future never
even imagined.
Faith element: low
HEART OF STONE By Jill Marie Landis ISBN 978-0-310-29369-9 Zondervan
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Laura was an elegant presence in town helping the townsfolk and running
a respectable boarding house—women and families only. Her past was so dark, she would do anything not to have it come
to light. She thought she'd covered all the bases. She didn't figure on, Brand, the local pastor showing an interest. She
also didn't figure that Brand had his own past with which to deal.
But the past refuses to stay buried for either one of them. Can they
find forgiveness and healing together or will Laura run—again?
A historical romance with characters that move the reader and with a
story line that shows that even the darkest parts of our lives can be forgiven.
While the faith message isn't overt, the message of forgiveness is woven
into the very fabric of this story.
A story of wholeness and faith.
WINTER'S AWAKENING Seasons of Sugarcreek By Shelley Shepard Gray
ISBN 978-0-06-185222-0 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Gretta doesn't know what's wrong with Joshua. At the time they are about
to declare their intentions for each other to their Amish community, Joshua is backing away, reassessing his life, his future
and their relationship. It hurts. But coming from a less than peaceful home, Gretta is wondering if marriage to Joshua is
what God intended or is this a wake up call for them both? But why did Joshua's decision include the Englisher Lilly?
A sweet romance of facing fear with faith, reaching out to those who
are different--even when one doesn't feel like it, and of allowing God to lead in decisions of the heart.
A book to read by a warm fire.
Faith element: medium
DEAD RECKONING By Ronie Kendig ISBN 978-1-4267-0058-3 Abingdon
Press Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
I absolutely loved this book.
A deadly mix up off the coast of Mumbai, India, places underwater archaeologist
Shiloh Blake in the middle of a nuclear terrorist plot. Her fellow divers are shot, but the bullets miss her beneath the water
where she has just unearthed what looks like a harmless canister instead of an ancient artifact from the sunken city.
Her university rival drops dead in the water, and her best friend follows,
but she detects a pulse and shares her air with him until they reach the shore. Using her transponder signal, rescuers find
them and rush her friend to the emergency room, but she soon finds her own life in danger. Men posing as police alert her
primal instincts to flee as her father-the-spy had taught her.
Told to watch her but not apprehend her, American operative Reece Jaxon
follows Shiloh through the marketplace and marvels at her ability to elude the terrorists.
I felt as if I were there. The pace is so jam-packed full of sensory
action, I could not put DEAD RECKONING down. If you like spy thrillers without foul language and gratuitous scenes, you will
love this book. I recommend it even for teens.
Faith element: low-medium.
COWGIRL AT HEART The McCord Sisters By Christine Lynxwiler ISBN
978-1-60260-151-2 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Elyse was afraid of many things and didn't interact well with others
outside her adoptive family. Most of all she feared someone would discover who she'd been before the McCords took her in.
Andrew is on the trail of the man who murdered his wife. Until then he
has nothing to offer anyone else. But when he rescues Elyse, his mission becomes more focused and more complicated. When his
past collides with hers, will they be able to sort through the rubble and, in faith, let go revenge and fear and find the
wholeness and love God intends for them both?
A captivating story with characters that stay with you long after you've
put down the book. Characters that make it hard to wait for the next book in the series. Though this was the first book in
the series I read, the story is written in such a way as to be complete in and of itself while integrating and moving forward
the story lines that went before.
Faith element: medium, well integrated. A grace-filled story of fear
to faith.
A CASE FOR LOVE All's Fair in Love and Lawsuits Brides of Bonneterre By
Kaye Dacus ISBN 978-1-60260-456-8 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Alaine would like to accept a date with the handsome Forbes and she would
have if she hadn't realized the Guidry family corporation was trying to buy up property like that of her parent's in her home
neighborhood that would leave many without their family businesses, without homes and without enough money to start over.
Will she allow God to speak through the anger in her heart?
Ethical lawyer Forbes Guidry is used to controlling everything around
him, including his siblings. But when Forbes is forced to confront the situation with the Guidry plans, he must rethink who
he is, his family ties, his attraction to Alaine and a chance to do something for the community that might cause him to lose
everything he's every worked for. Will he let go long enough to follow God's plans or will he hold on to His own?
A sweet faith romance story of control, letting go and letting God work
things out in His way and time.
Faith element: low to medium.
THE PASTOR'S WIFE By Jennifer Ailee ISBN 978-1-426-70225-9 Abingdon
Press Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
The past catches up with Maura Sullivan when a solicitor summons her
back to the small Ohio town she had fled. And she runs into the husband she had abandoned six years ago with no explanation.
And the will that names both her and Nick as beneficiaries has stipulations.
Maura must live at the parsonage for six months before the gift from
the eccentric parishioner is officially hers.
How can she co-exist with a man who puts his congregation before his
wife? And how can she face his congregation again?
Learn the heartbreak that tore this young couple apart at their first
parish. And the balm that heals all wounds. I enjoyed this book, and recommend it highly. Faith element: warm and soft.
WALKING ON BROKEN GLASS By Christa Allan ISBN 978-1-426-70227-3 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
To look at Leah Thornton’s life, one would never guess anything
troubled her. Living in an upscale neighborhood. The life of the party at all her husband’s corporate events. Able to
shop to her heart’s content. But only behind closed doors can she admit her underlying fears. And her addiction.
When she takes her best friend’s advice and seeks help, how could
she know that healing would hurt so much? And relationships could be so fragile they might break?
If I had known children break on the inside and the cracks don’t
surface until years later, I would have been more careful with my words. . . . If I had known couples . . . want what they
are unprepared to give or unwilling to take, I would have been more careful with my words...Leah T. August 4. Patient Discharge
Statement.
A heart-rending story full of possibilities...and hope. Well worth the
read. The faith element is there, but not explained.
LOVE FINDS YOU IN LONESOME PRAIRIE, MONTANA By Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna
Fleiss ISBN 978-935416-29-6 Summerside Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Julie, an orphan herself, loved taking care of the orphan children in
her charge. But when the owner of the orphanage marries and sends the children west as part of the Orphan Trail, she sends
them in Julie's care. What she didn't tell Julie was that she'd arranged a marriage for her--to a man who was anything but
Julie's ideal.
Pastor Isaac has taken a vow to never marry, but when Julie turns to
him for help, he can't help but wonder. Still he made a vow and Julie is determined to return to the East. Can God get them
to listen to His plans instead of their own and find healing and happiness in one another?
Interesting characters that bring both groans and smiles. A sweet prairie
romance of two hard-headed people who find out that, when we listen, God changes hearts.
Faith element: medium
PLAIN JAYNE By Hillary Manton Lodge ISBN 978-0-7369-2698-4 Harvest
House Publishers Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jayne wasn't interested in a vacation, but her boss at the newspaper
said she needed a break. So what did reporter Jayne do? Decide to make contact with an Amish community and do a free lance
article. What she didn't expect was finding the simple life suited her, that maybe she needed to reconnect with her own past
and the faith she left behind. Most of all she realized she could not move forward until she found healing she didn't even
realize she needed.
Add Shane, her comfortable boyfriend who wanted to be more, Levi, a man
who'd left his Amish community who sparked something in Jayne, and Sara, the Amish girl who wound herself around Jayne's
heart and who was deciding whether to go or stay.
A story that touches the truth of who we are and the need to be all that
God created us to be. This book, unlike so many other stories, does not elevate the Amish way of life above life outside the
community. It does reveal both the positive and negatives and the need to allow God to guide and heal.
A moving story with characters I can't wait to meet again in Sara's story.
Faith element: high.
THE CHOICE By Suzanne Woods Fisher ISBN 978-o08007-3385-8 Revell
Books Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
I loved this Amish mystery. A good clash of work-centered Amish and pleasure
centered English, rule-centered devout and God-centered free.
Carrie Weaver is planning to elope with Sol Riehl when he leaves to pitch
for the Lancaster Barnstormers, but when her father dies in an accident, she knows she cannot leave her younger brother at
the mercy of their cruel stepmother. Sol only wants a wife, not a family, so he leaves without her.
Faced with a weighty decision, she accepts the proposal of the man her
father had wished her to marry—as long as he understands that her brother is part of the package, and that she does
not love him. Surprisingly, Daniel accepts her on those terms. He has reasons of his own and it suits him just fine.
Did she make the right choice? You will love the poignant love stories—yes,
more than one—that follow, and be surprised by the twists and turns as the “mystery of the fires” unfolds.
It’s never too late to find God. And forgiveness. Sweet!
SWINGING ON A STAR Weddings by Bella #2 By Janice Thompson ISBN
978-0-8007-3343-8 Revell Books Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
Book Two in the Weddings by Bella series is as lively
as Book One, FOOLS RUSH IN. And Bella Rossi’s family is just as quirky, including the scripture-spouting, bar-song singing
parrot.
The problem with this Renaissance-themed wedding Bella is planning is
that it comes with a last-minute surprise, one of Hollywood’s hottest stars as one of the groomsmen, and she must put
him up at the Rossi’s house to keep him hidden from the paparazzi. But how does one keep that a secret? Especially from
the precocious kid across the street who has a camera and the Internet as friends.
Add to this Bella’s new beau, his momma and her friends, her star
struck sister, a feuding aunt and uncle, and you’ll see why Bella wonders if this wedding will ever take place.
Swinging on a Star is a totally satisfying trip! Janice Thompson is an
experienced wedding coordinator herself, so she knows what can go wrong. And what can fix it. The faith element is there,
but not in your face. (Low)
JENNA'S COWBOY By Sharon Gillenwater ISBN 978-0-8007-3353-7 Revell
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Nate is home from the war to help his farmer father, but he is also ready
to re-connect with his past and the only girl he ever loved.
But, Jenna has been hurt by the man who promised forever and left her
for greener pastures. She is only recently crawling out of the pain of her divorce. Her young son Zach and her loving family
have a lot to do with giving her a reason to live.
Having Nate in her life once more, who is working for her father on the
ranch when not helping his dad, is another reason. But when traumatic stress from the war sometimes turns Nate into someone
she doesn't know, someone dangerous, can even faith mend their wounds and make a forever future possible?
A story of faith, love and truth that takes us into the heart of how
war vets often need to do much more than try to forget.
Highly recommended for anyone who has a vet in their life and for those
who look for a "real" love story.
Faith element: high
A KISS FOR CADE Western Sky Series By Lori Copeland ISBN
978-0-7369-2763-5 Harvest House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Zoe has been hurt before by bounty-hunter Cade, but when he returns home
to find his sister's orphan children a home, Zoe knows she's going to be hurt all over again. Why won't Cade let her raise
the children? After all, she loves them and been a part of their lives forever. Why is Cade so sure he cannot provide the
home the children need?
When a strange fever hits the town, when someone is stealing cattle and
when Cade's aunt blows into town determined to take the children, even though the children are terrified of her, Zoe
and Cade must find an answer for their future and the future of the children. But can they stop butting heads long enough
to work together or will their small town have to take matters into their own hands?
A story with Copeland's deft touch with romance, characters and a story
that conveys the importance of roots, forgiveness and love. A KISS FOR CADE is told with subtle humor that leaves the reader
with a smile.
Faith element: low
SHADES OF BLUE By Karen Kingsbury ISBN 978-0-310-26622-8 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
An ad executive for a large firm, Brad didn't think he'd have a problem
coming up with an ad campaign for the soft, green baby line. After all, his life was on track. He was marrying the boss's
daughter, who he dearly loved, had a great job, and his faith was stronger than ever. So why did he draw a blank on this ad
campaign and why did touching the baby clothes and viewing pictures of babies flash him back to a very bad part of his life,
a part he'd left behind?
Only Brad discovers he hasn't left what happened behind. Just weeks before
his wedding he confesses to his fiancée and her father and returns to the place it all began to find the woman he'd left behind
in a world of hurt. Can he find Emma and when he does can they find a place of healing? What about his fiancée who discovered
her knight in shining armor wasn't so heroic, would she ever forgive him? What path did God have for him to walk?
As Brad walks into the past, he realizes he never understood the hurt
his selfish choices cost his soul or the first love of his life.
A stirring story of love, betrayal and restoration that only God can
bring when the choice is abortion.
Highly recommended for any one who has been touched by abortion or knows
someone contemplating this choice that has such long-term consequences.
Faith element: High
FATAL BURN Big Sky Secrets By Roxanne Rustand ISBN 978-0-373-44380-2 Steeple
Hill Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Kris just wanted to start over when she came to see about the inheritance
in Montana from an aunt she didn't even know she had. Her first thought was to do a bit of repair work on the ranch and sell
it. But the scenery and the prospect of using her abilities and skill to run a much-needed shelter on the property was more
appealing, at least in the short term.
It didn't hurt that, Trace, the rancher next door was drop-dead gorgeous
and his sister a quick friend. But Kris has a past and it refuses to stay in the past. When danger haunts not only Kris, but
her animals will she be able to find out the truth about what is happening before she loses everything she's gained—a
home, friendships, a heart ready to love again...and her faith?
A romance mystery that draws us into characters we'd like to know and
a world that makes us want to vacation in Big Sky country. A perfect read for a cold Winter's day.
Faith element: medium
BECOMING LUCY Winds Across the Prairies, Book I By Martha Rogers ISBN
978-1-5997-9912-4 Realms Reviewer Narda McCarthy
If Jesus is in the forgiving business, why is it that some of his followers
are not?
Lucinda, a beautiful and wealthy young woman is forced by her parents'
untimely death to move from the sophistication of Boston to the wide-open spaces and frontier life of Oklahoma.
Before BECOMING LUCY there is much to learn as she encounters great challenges
in adverse circumstances in an unknown territory. Will she ever go back to the city that had seen her grow up?
Will her faith guide her to the friendship and love she craves?
Family strong ties, open skies, courageous people that will do anything
to protect those they love, make of it a hard book to put down.
Faith element: Strong.
THREE WEDDINGS & A BAR MITZVAH 86 Bloomberg Place Finale
By Melody Carolson ISBN 1-58919-108-2 David C Cook T Reviewer: Kristine Pratt
What about happily ever after?
In THREE WEDDINGS & A BAR MITZVAH, we follow four friends as they
leave 86 Bloomberg place. Two are getting married – on the same day no less – while the others are moving ahead
in their relationships. Or at least that’s the plan.
Outside forces threaten the future for each of them. Lelani’s
perfect wedding is about to become a circus thanks to an overzealous mother-in-law-to-be. Anna’s uncertainty about
her man might be just the push he needs to find someone else. Kendall’s family seems certain she can’t make an
intelligent decision about her wedding (and life in general) and aren’t shy about voicing their opinion. And Megan’s
man just disappeared to Africa on a mission trip.
Pulling together, and pulling closer to God, is the only answer that
will get them through these disasters in the making. As the reader laughs and cries with them, we are reminded that in all
things God reigns supreme and has a way of making everything work out for the best. Especially when our own plans are tumbling
down around us.
While a newcomer to the series might be a little confused by the cast
initially, they will quickly settle into the story. I for one would enjoy going back and discovering the rest of the series
now that I’ve read this delightful and swift-paced conclusion. If you enjoy books about relationships in a chick-lit
sort of style, then this is certainly a book for you!
Faith Content: Low to Medium
THE CAMELOT CONSPIRACY By Diane and David Munson ISBN 978-0-9825355-2-3 Micah
House Media Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
Expertly written. An exciting thriller.
Eva Montanna is too busy with her special assignment to the U.S. Senate
to follow up on the caller’s plea, “My life is in danger. Help free me, por favor. . . . Children, hundreds, maybe
thousands, will die if I do nothing. Can you get me out?” As a mother of three, she has to help, so she hands the Cuban
prisoner case over to fellow CIA agent Bo Rider on her way to the senate hearing on terrorist threats from South America.
Kat Kowicki, reporter for network television, believes Senator Zorn’s
behind the scenes smear campaigns of the presidential candidates mask his own intentions to run, and she intends to expose
him. She enlists Eva’s help in nailing him, and it backfires. Her boss demotes her to the Chicago station.
Nevertheless, Kat aids a retired Chicago policeman bent on discovering
the second shooter in the assassination of John F. Kennedy, and report on who was really behind it. These four form an unusual
alliance and find that their cases have a common denominator.
This fast-paced political thriller is a captivating insider look into
government intrigue, and well worth reading. Faith element: warm and soft.
LOVE FINDS YOU IN BETHLEHEM, NEW HAMPSHIRE Lauralee Bliss ISBN
978-935416-20-3 Summerside Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sara had no place to go. Since her mother's death, she had just tried
to stay alive on the streets of New York, thankful for the good woman who extended kindness. It was through that kindness
Sara headed to Bethlehem, NH to become the wife of a fine, Godly man.
Unfortunately, the up-and-coming painter, didn't know what to make of
the pale, uneducated waif that got off the train. True, with the assistance of his sister, Sara became much more. But Tom
was pulled more toward a wealthy young woman who seemed to be all he'd dreamed of for a mate.
But which woman really had the heart to be his helpmate? And what happens
when everything falls apart and Sara spurns his help? Can these two get beyond their preconceived notions to find the future
God has in store? A sweet romance of faith, love and over-coming pre-conceived notions. A fun read with a message we all need
to hear.
Faith element: medium
LOVE FINDS YOU IN NORTH POLE, ALASKA Loree Lough ISBN 978-935416-19-7 Summerside
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sam thought she came to the Santa town to become a chef, but when that
job falls through she finds more than a job managing Rudolph's Christmas Emporium. She finds a friend in Olive the owner's
aunt.
But Sam wonders about the new job when she discovers the owner, the war-scarred
hero Bryce, plans to sells his family business for plans of his own. Can Sam help Bryce see a future beyond his pain? A sweet,
poignant romance of loss and love.
Faith element: low
IN THE ARMS OF IMMORTALS Chronicles of the Scribe #2 By Ginger
Garrett ISBN 978-0-7814-4888-8 David C. Cook Reviewer Kristine Pratt
How far can you justify a lie? What if you had a really good reason for
it at the time? And no one would ever find out?
Ah, but therein lies the problem. Because God knows…and as Mariskka
finds out, even those little lies that would never hurt anyone…can be very harmful indeed.
After years of trials that left her near destitute, Mariskka finds a
manuscript written by a dying woman. Taking the novel doesn’t seem like that big of a deal. Sadly, the angels who show
up at her penthouse apartment after that book becomes a bestseller, don’t agree.
Condemned to journey back in time, left mute and helpless, Mariskka has
to find her purpose in traveling to Sicily in 1347. Here the lives of several individuals intertwine as plague ravages the
tiny island. In days the world is changed--as is Mariskka.
In this fascinating tale of a time and place not written about often,
past and present collide. This is perhaps one of the most enjoyable novels I’ve read in the past year. Even though I
never read the first book, this volume was easy to get into and makes me eager to find the rest of the series. This is a book
I would strongly recommend…just don’t start reading it before bed or I guarantee you’ll be up most of the
night wanting to see how it comes out. (This reviewer speaks from experience here).
Faith level: Moderate to High
THE LAST WORD Sophie Trace Trilogy By Kathy Herman ISBN 978-1-4347-6785-1 David
C Cook Reviewer Narda McCarthy
Police Chief Brill Jessup's world is disrupted when one of her detectives is
not only attacked in the station's hallway, but also stumbles to her office to deliver the assassin's message: "You are next!."
If that is not enough, Jessup's daughter arrives home for the summer
- eight months pregnant.
With Jessup's job on the line if she doesn't find the serial murderer, when the baby's
father seems to have disappeared, emotions build at home. Will she and her husband Kurt rely on God's guidance and protection
and will they be able to accept God's unexpected answers?
Herman takes the reader to the past without missing
the urgency of the present. The reader will not want to put the book down until "The Last Word" is said.
Element
of faith: high
WHITE PICKET FENCES By Susan Meissner ISBN 978-1-4000-7457-0 WaterBrook
Press Reviewed by: Cynthia Hickey
Everyone has secrets. Some small and private. Others large enough to effect
a nation. And some that span generations.
Amanda Janvier has the perfect life. At least on the outside. A successful
career, a husband with a stable job and the desire to help the unfortunate, and two wonderful children. But when her gallivanting
brother takes off and Amanda brings his teenage daughter into the home, the chinks in the Janvier armor begin to show. Amanda
begins to question everything she holds dear. Especially, when an age-old secret pulls the first thread on the unraveling
afghan of her life.
Chase, Amanda' s son, shares his greatest fear with his cousin Tally. Together, through interviewing
two holocaust survivors, Chase faces his fear and brings to life secrets; both old and new. Will their newfound knowledge
bring members of the Janvier family closer together or wedge them so far apart there can be no repair?
Susan
Meissner has once again crafted a superb story of real people in real situations. Although the faith element is low, the character
element is high. A great read!
THE SHERIFF'S SURRENDER By Susan Page Davis ISBN 978-1-60260-562-6 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The Sheriff of Fergus was dead--murdered, and the newly, and reluctantly,
appointed sheriff Ethan Chapman had only a single clue, if it was a clue.
When the murder was only the beginning of problems for the citizens of
Fergus, the women--over the objections of most of the menfolk, and led by sharpshooter, Gert, band together to learn how to
protect themselves.
Will the Ladies Shooting Club prove a help or a hindrance as a murderer
stalks the town? Will Ethan and Gert join forces in more than in finding a killer?
A plot-driven old west mystery, told from different points of view, acquaints
the reader with the townsfolk, especially the members of the new Ladies Shooting Club that brings together women from all
walks of life.
The mystery, told with a hint of humor, draws in the reader with an interesting
group of characters who learn to not only work together, but also to care about one another.
Be interesting to see where the author takes us in the next Ladies Shooting
Club book.
LIMELIGHT By Melody Carlson ISBN 978-1-4000-7082-4 Multnomah
Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
Claudette Fioré, the 82-year-old Hollywood legend, used to have everything:
a famous director/husband, an elegant mansion, and above all, beauty. But all that is gone. Age has marred her beauty, the
house her husband had left her has been confiscated for the back taxes her scheming accountant had stolen, and she is destitute
and alone, her pride in ruins.
She has only two relatives left, a sister who will not speak to her,
and a stepson who comes to her rescue her from the psychiatric institution she finds herself in after attempting
suicide.
Claudette has only one place to go, the tiny town she grew up in, ten
hours north of Hollywood. Although her stepson sets her up comfortably in the family bungalow with some of her
former furniture, she has now idea how to do even the simplest task. Although it is both hilarious and painful for us
to watch, she gradually comes to grips with her situation, facing the family secrets, her estranged sister, friends she had
forgotten, and God.
I was surprised, but I liked the quirky characters. Faith element, low.
LEAVING CAROLINA By Tamara Leigh ISBN 978-1-60142-166-1 Multnomah
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Piper Pickwick, uh, Wick, left the town of her childhood twelve years
ago and vowed never to return. Then, she’s called home to change her uncle’s mind on making changes to his will.
If anyone can do it, Piper can. Get in fast, and get out quick. At least that was the plan. Then she starts feeling her roots
and spending way too much time with Uncle Obe’s handsome, long-haired gardener, Axel Smith, who knows too much about
the Pickwicks than is wise.
When Piper is forced to admit that people can change over time, even
her crazy, often mean, family, she makes a decision to right a wrong of her own and will never be the same. Plus, what’s
the increasing emotions she’s feeling toward Axel? What happened to the solve problems quickly and go home? Piper is
in over her head.
LEAVING CAROLINA is a fun read about grace, making restitution, and how
our plans are not always God’s plan. Medium on the faith scale, the message is in the pages, nevertheless. A gentle
nudge to us to head in the right direction.
DOUBLE CROSS By James David Jordan ISBN 978-0-8054-4754-5 B&H
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Taylor Pasbury, a former Secret Service agent, is still struggling with
the death of Simon, her employer, her mentor, her friend and the one who re-introduced her to the viability of faith. Now
Taylor protects his daughter, but can she protect either of them when Simon's former top aid commits suicide...or does she?
Just where is the money the aid was supposed to have embezzled and does it have anything to do with a reporter's investigation?
A mystery that leads Taylor back to her past, her mother who deserted
her as a child, and teaches her some hard lessons about life, forgiveness and faith.
While I would have liked this highly trained professional to make some
of the connections a little more quickly than she did, the story is intriguing and provides a nice blend of character and
plot development.
KELLY'S CHANCE Brides of Lehigh Canal #1 By Wanda E Brunstetter ISBN
978-1-60260-890-0 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Kelly was an unpaid canal walker who desired another life. But what life
could she have when her father kept everything she earned as his right, since the family worked the canal together? When,
Mike, a store owner along the canal, takes an interest in her drawings, Kelly begins to see a possible way out. Maybe the
drawings will give her the money she needs to make her own way. But when Mike's gentle faith and their growing friendship
threatens her plans, Kelly must decide what she truly wants. Is she ready to let go and trust God really does have a plan
and purpose for her life?
Faith and family drive this story with enough plot to keep the reader
turning pages, hoping for a positive conclusion for Kelly and Mike. The reader receives that wish. A sweet, sentimental story
from an interesting period in history with a wrapped up happy ending.
Faith element: medium plus
THE COURTEOUS CAD By Catherine Palmer ISBN 978-0-8423-755-9 Tyndale
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Miss Prudence has been jilted, nicely, but jilted by a man who realized
he wasn't her equal. Miss Prudence, a friend to Betsy Fry, has decided, like her friend, she wants to have a purpose beyond
marriage—a cause. On her trip to the country, she discovers her cause in seeking better conditions for the mill workers.
Only this puts her directly into the path of the mill owner, William Sherbourne, a navel officer recently returned from the
sea.
Both have secrets to be kept. Though sparks fly between them, both realize
they can never make a life together—not when William acknowledges he is a wanton cad. But when conditions at the mill
pull them into a much larger rebellion, the two must acknowledge both the good and bad in their choices.
Can William be redeemed and can the two forgive one another and find
a purpose in working together?
And who is the writer of society gossip and will the tattler's identity
be revealed? Will the penchant for gossip help or hurt the relationship between Prudence and William?
A character-driven regency with all the wit, foibles and fashion of the
time period. I am a particular fan of regencies and of Catherine Palmer. I'd like to see more Christian regencies.
THE BLUE UMBRELLA By Mike Mason ISBN 978-1-4347-6526-0 David
C Cook Reviewer Narda McCarthy
Young Zachary Spark's (Zac) life suffers a catastrophic change when his mother
is hit by lightning and dies. Up to that very night, he had been a happy, carefree and protected little boy.
After
the funeral, "the Aunties" take him to their home, to a strange and frightening world where he meets an asortment of characters
that will scare him and at the same time arouse his curiosity: A young boy fascinated by the weather; a little girl that refuses
to talk; an old man that communicates without talking; a youthful, homely man that carries a blue umbrella, an umbrella that
will be a source of much anguish and much happiness to Zac.
There is so much to do and so little time; Zac might
be forced to choose between good and evil, he might be required to sacrifice much and let go in order to do what is right.
Will he do it? Will the trust placed in him be justified? Will he come through triumphant after all the heartache and
loneliness?
At the beginning the reader might be enticed by the cover; later drawn by the exquisite use of the
language to end up wishing fervidly for Zac's success. This is one of those books that enthralls the reader from the first
sentence to the last.
Element of faith: medium.
A LADY LIKE SARAH By Margaret Brownley ISBN 978-1-595554-809-2 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Justin lost his church in Boston. He isn't sure about his new church
in Rocky Creek. He is even less sure when he comes across a US Marshal and his prisoner, a feisty young woman with red hair.
Both are in bad shape. The Marshal has been shot and both need water and care.
Sarah wants only to escape. But Preacher Man is less than useless at
getting the bullet out of the Marshal. She can't let the Marshal die, even if he's taking her in. Together Justin and Sarah
seek to assist the Marshal and get him to help.
Along the way, Justin and Sarah find, as different as they seem, something
drawing them together. But can even Justin's God keep Sarah from the horror that awaits her? Maybe, after all, she needs to
run away...again.
A frontier romance with engaging characters, a story that draws in the
reader and with a sense of humor that leaves one with a smile. Can't wait for the next Rocky Creek Romance. The title is perfect!
Faith element: medium to high
THE CHRISTMAS GLASS By Marci Alborghetti ISBN 978-0-8249-4776-7 Guideposts
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
12 handblown Christmas ornaments rescued from the devastation of WW II,
become the catalyst for bringing a fragmented family back together for one last Christmas with Filomena who'd received the
precious ornaments from her cousin. Over the years, as she tried to control the lives of her family, she also gave away pieces
of her heart with the ornaments.
Too much left unsaid, too many attempts to manipulate and control divided
the family. THE CHRISTMAS GLASS tells the backstories of each of the characters, family and friends, who've been given one
of the ornaments and how Filomena's meddling has divided rather than solidified the family, something each generation seems
to be passing on.
Can Filomena bring her family together one last time for truth and healing?
A story of stories and how each decision has ripples far beyond what
we can know, both good and bad. THE CHRISTMAS GLASS is a book about choices, hope and second chances.
Faith element: low
JUST BETWEEN YOU AND ME By Jenny B. Jones ISBN 978-1-59554-851-1 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Former residential wild-child, Maggie Montgomery is living large as a
cinematographer. Life is headed in the right direction as she travels the globe from one exotic locale to another. Then duty
calls and she travels home to help her father care for a niece even wilder than Maggie ever was. To complicate matters further,
there’s the handsome, ex-high school geek, veterinarian Connor.
He remembers Maggie, but she doesn’t have a clue who he is or why
he seems so cold toward her. Then Maggie begins to find herself drawn to the aloof man and must prove to him she’s no
longer the girl who plunged ahead regardless of the feelings of others.
As Maggie tries to save a little girl, and in the process face deep fears
of her own, Maggie comes face-to-face with what really happened the night her mother died. With the lifting of a lifetime
of cares, Maggie learns what unconditional love is.
Jenny B. Jones has written a story of facing fears head on and relying
on God to pick up the pieces. Beautifully written and often humorous, JUST BETWEEN YOU AND ME will stay with the reader long
after the last page is turned. An 8 on the faith scale.
JUST BETWEEN YOU AND ME By Jenny B. Jones ISBN 978-1-59554-851-1 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Childhood wounds shape lives. Maggie Montgomery is a walking testament
to that fact. The traumatic death of her mother dictated the course of Maggie’s childhood, and eventually her adult
life, leaving her full of inner fears that drive her every decision.
She travels the world as a cinematographer, but cannot out-pace her painful
past. When her distant father calls, pleading for help, Maggie returns to her hometown where old fears and new dreams collide.
If she is to live the life she longs for, she must confront her worst nightmare. Will she turn to God for help or let her
fears consume her?
While quirky characters and a lighthearted tone may seem at odds with
the serious subject matter explored—trauma, loss, and fear—they combine perfectly in Maggie’s journey to
make this an enjoyable and compelling read.
Faith element: medium
THE CHRISTMAS DOG By Melody Carlson ISBN 978-0-8007-1881-7 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Betty is an unhappy, lonely, unpleasant woman who wonders why she should
even celebrate Christmas. She has no family living nearby and no place to go for Christmas. Besides, she lives on a small
income.
It doesn't help that her newest neighbor seems bent on destroying
the house next door. She acts less than charitable when he points out the dividing fence is not only falling to pieces, it
is also located too close to his property line. That what he says, though true, only fuels Betty's ire.
But when a maybe, maybe not stray dog invades her home and when her niece
does the same, will Betty see beyond her self-pity to find the true gift of Christmas?
Sometimes we miss God's blessings because we focus on our complaints
instead of our blessings. Sometimes looking beyond ourselves opens us to the miracle of unexpected joy.
Faith element: low
THE UNFINISHED GIFT By Dan Walsh ISBN 978-0-8007-1924-1 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Social worker Miss Townsend doesn't want to leave sweet Patrick with
his grandfather, but she has no choice. Patrick's mother is dead and his father is fighting the Nazi menace. When Patrick's
grandfather seems less than sympathetic to Patrick's need for love and assurance, Miss Townsend increases her efforts to bring
Patrick's father home.
Patrick doesn't understand why his grandfather seems to hate him. Ian
gets positively furious when Patrick finds an unfinished carving in the attic. Patrick's only friends are the lady next door
and Miss Townsend. When everything goes wrong, Patrick makes a choice that changes everything. Will it be enough to soften
the heart of a man too long seeped in bitterness, forgiveness and anger?
A sentimental Christmas story of forgiveness and hope.
THE LIGHTKEEPER'S DAUGHTER By Colleen Coble ISBN 978-1-59554-267-0 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Narda McCarthy
Adeline Sullivan - Addie - has lived all her life in the lighthouse with her
doting father and an indifferent mother. Having been blessed with many skills and a compassionate heart, nothing has prepared
Addie for what awaits ahead after a wounded stranger shows up at their doorstep one stormy night.
Looking ahead
to an uncertain future, surrounded of a long-awaited-for extended family and maybe the man of her dreams, she wonders whether
she will finally earn her mother's love.
With a mystery component, this book will transport the reader to the
peaceful redwoods sprayed by the ocean breeze in a small town of northern California.
Faith element: Light.
THE SOUND OF SLEIGH BELLS By Cindy Woodsmall ISBN 978-0-307-44653-4 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
Beth Hertzler hides her heart and her secret behind her black mourning
dresses. And behind her outward conformity lurks a determined woman who will allow no one to breach the gap her dead fiancé
had left. She busies herself in her aunt’s dry goods store that serves as a go-between for the Amish artisans and the
English market.
After her aunt Lizzie coaxes her back on the road with their new catalog
of goods to sell, she gets lost on a detour, and stumbles upon a small antique store where she buys a woodcarving that speaks
to her. With the help of her well-meaning aunt, she finds herself corresponding with the “old man” who carved
it. And somehow it backfires.
Poignant. Unforgettable. I found it a truly satisfying story of love and loss,
heartache and redemption. The mercy of God shines gloriously through its pages. Faith element: high.
LOVE IS A BATTLEFIELD By Annalisa Daughtety ISBN 978-1-60260-477-3 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
A surprising love story, with many strikes against it.
From the examples around her, and her own experience at being left at
the altar, Kristy O’Neal is convinced that all relationships are doomed to fail. And the solo “honeymoon”
cruise does nothing to help her face her co-workers at Shiloh National Military Park when she returns. Even worse, she finds
that someone else—who cares that he is Johnny Depp handsome—has been hired to take her place, and she must accept
the temporary position as a “seasonal” park ranger, or find housing and a job outside the complex.
Ace Kennedy has a secret reason for taking the job at Shiloh.
He is hoping to research the archives about his ancestor who died on
this field in the civil war. But Kristy becomes more than a distraction from his mission when they are thrown together in
nightly stakeouts to catch a felon defacing park statues; he is falling in love with her.
Love is a Battlefield is Book 1 in A Walk in the Park series. Faith element:
low-medium.
LOVE FINDS YOU IN POETRY, TEXAS By Janice Hanna ISBN 978-1-935416-16-6 Summerside
Press Reviewer Narda McCarthy
It is hard to recognize love when love has been across the street all
the time.
Belinda has decided that her mission is to serve others and is convinced
that she has to stay single in order to achieve her divine-given purpose. In the process of finding love for others Belinda
is faced with her true feelings and finds happiness next to the man that has loved her since childhood.
Janice Hanna takes us to the ideal small west town of old where faith
and trust in God is common to its inhabitants; where everyone knows everyone; where all are invited to a wedding and all are
there to bring support when needed.
Poetry is not only the town’s name; poetry is an important part
of its inhabitant’s lives, which Hanna has made evident by artistically braiding beautiful verses in her charming prose.
THE JEWEL OF HIS HEART Heart of the West #2 By Maggie Brendan ISBN 978-0-8007-3350-6 Revell Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Juliana and her mother eke out a living washing clothes. But when Juliana
is left alone, she must decide how to make her own way. The trouble is, there is this handsome sheepherder Josh... Will Juliana
give either God or Josh a chance or will her bitterness and unresolved questions keep her from life, healing and love?
A sweet romance that is a pleasure to read with characters that bring
a smile. Nice to read a Christian novel that isn't seeking to push the limits of good taste or language.
Faith element: medium
WILD WEST CHRISTMAS Romancing America 4-in-one collection CHARLSEY'S
ACCOUNTANT By Lena Nelson Dooley LUCY AMES, SHARPSHOOTER By Darlene Franklin A BREED APART By Vickie McDonough PLAIN
TROUBLE By Kathleen Y'barbo ISBN 978-1-6026-0566-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The four girls run the ranch with their father, Each has different gifts
and abilities, but each wants one thing—to be loved for who they are.
Charlsey is one of best cowhands on the ranch. She doesn't have time
for Horace, the accountant son of her father's friend, who has come to talk cattle. When they find themselves spending time
together, she comes to know another side of him. Just maybe....
Horace wants to complete his business and return home. Except, he keeps
getting distracted by the beautiful Charlsey who he sees over supper. But while she begins to see beyond his city ways, Horace
has no clue to the real role Charlsey plays on the ranch. Once he knows the truth, can Horace look beyond his expectations
to open his heart to love?
Sharpshooting Lucy grabs the chance to join a Wild West Show. While she
is using her skills, she misses using them for useful purposes as she did back home when her skills helped feed her family.
She also doesn't quite know how to handle her heart when Gordon, the owner's son, begins showing her attention. Is he “the
one?” So why does God seem to be leading them in different directions. And what about her would-be suitor back home?
Will Lucy be as sharp in discerning God's will for her future?
Sarah is less than happy when her father, in an attempt to force her
into more lady-like pursuits, hires a part-Mexican horse trainer to take her place. What if Carson is part of the crew rustling
their cattle? But when Carson steals something else instead—her heart, Sarah doesn't know what to do. Who wants a wife
who can handle cattle, but whose attempts in the kitchen lead to total disaster?
Bessie has seen herself as plain since a school boy made up a nasty rhyme
when they were in school together. The rhyme haunts her even after all these years. Bessie is a great tracker, but she is
also the domestic one of the sisters, the one who takes care of hearth and home. But what happens when that school boy nemesis
returns as a Texas Ranger on the hunt and seems to be courting her, of all people? Can Bessie overcome her hurt to learn who
she is in God's eyes and reach out for the future God has for her?
Four stories of adventure and love that are fun to read (though I would
have liked just a bit more wrap up on Lucy's story), sigh over and that leave the reader with a smile knowing that, after
all, God has a plan and purpose for each of our lives.
As I am on the far side of fifty, I also appreciated the larger print.
Made the book more comfortable to read.
A book to relax with on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea.
Faith element: high
LOVE FINDS YOU IN REVENGE, OHIO By Lisa Harris ISBN 978-1-93770-81-8 Summerside
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Catherine's life was going just fine thank you until her ex-fiancé showed
up as temporary Sheriff of Revenge, Ohio. They'd parted ways after her father walked out, her mother died and she was left
with resentment toward her dad and three siblings to raise.
Only Corbin looks better than ever and always seems to be near as Catherine's
world begins crashing down on her. It hurts to know Corbin hadn't returned for her, but to capture a murderous gang of bank
robbers causing destruction in the area. Is it possible, someone close to Catherine and her sisters is involved? Catherine
will do anything to discover the truth. But will Catherine's lingering resentment and unforgiving heart and Corbin's desire
for revenge cause them to miss love a second time around?
An entertaining historical romance mystery with characters that will
win your heart and with a message of forgiveness that speaks to each one of us.
Faith element: medium
SEASIDE LETTERS A Nantucket Love Story ISBN 978-1-59554-260-1 By
Denise Hunter Thomas Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Have you ever committed a sin so vile you felt you needed to hide? Spurned
in the cruelest way, Sabrina Kincaid does the very act that wounded her heart weeks before. Then the unthinkable happens and
she hides behind her computer screen as “Sweetpea”, falling in love with “Harbormaster” through pain
bearing and love-filled emails.
What Sabrina doesn’t know is that Tucker, “Harbormaster”
knows her true identity and wants to meet face-to-face. She won’t let it happen and concocts a scheme to keep her true
identity from the man she loves. Will she ever be able to forgive herself and move forward with her life?
SEASIDE LETTERS takes “You’ve got mail” to a new beginning.
With heart-wrenching, sometimes humorous escapades, Sabrina and Tucker play a game of cat and mouse that leaves the reader
with a smile on their face when all is said and done.
The faith element is subtly woven into real characters with real flaws.
A six on the faith scale, yet the reader can’t miss the message of forgiveness and compassion woven into the story.
LOOK TO THE EAST By Maureen Lang ISBN 978-1-4143-2435-7 Tyndale
House Reviewed by Kristine Pratt
How can you possibly accept yourself when the world has already condemned
you?
Juliette Toussaint has been set apart since she was a child. Condemned
by her birth, made an outcast by what the village perceives her to be, she has every reason to be bitter. But on the contrary,
this young woman lives and breathes her faith in a town torn first by a bitter feud so old no one can even remember how it
began, and ripped apart a second time by German invasion during World War I.
Enter Charles Lassone, a man who by necessity must conceal who he is.
A man who also questions just who he is, and what his purpose could possibly be when the only thing he can do is hide. And
wait.
Whose opinion matters most? Forbidden love unfolds against the backdrop
of war. In a time when isolation is necessary for survival, this couple reaches not only to each other, but to God as well,
and the ultimate acceptance to be found in Christ.
I highly recommend this gripping tale told in an era rarely examined
by writers. Maureen has outdone herself this time…and I can’t wait to see where she’ll take us next!
Faith level: Moderate
THE SWISS COURIER By Tracie Goyer & Mike Yorkey ISBN 978-0-8007-3336-0 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
The Swiss were known to be neutral in WW II, but beneath the less-than-admirable
government mandates were those who fought for freedom of their fellow human beings, not always on the front lines, but with
cunning and stealth and in the shadow world of espionage.
Gabi works for the the OSS (the precursor to the CIA) translating messages.
But when asked to use her particular skills, she doesn't hesitate, especially after what she saw on the bridge. But can she
trust even her supervisor or is there more going on than even she knows? What will she do when asked to put herself on the
line for a scientist who can a difference in the war?
A story that leaves the reader feeling the tension of betrayal and discovery
and the true horror of what it cost Switzerland to remain neutral. The novel felt like truth, not surprising since I've read
other Goyer books and know the depth of her research.
The characters, the setting, the twisted plot drew me in as new truth
about those days left me with the determination that freedom must be preserved for all.
WW II fans, as well as fans of espionage and a solid story will find
this book intriguing, informative and riveting.
Faith element: low
A MEASURE OF MERCY Home to Blessing #1 By Lauraine Snelling ISBN
978-0-7642-0609-2 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Astrid is learning to be a doctor at her home town of Blessing, but Dr.
Bjorklund, under whom she is studying, wants her to have more training in Chicago. Though Astrid wants to be a doctor, she
doesn't want to leave her home town, especially when handsome Joshua Landsverk returns and catches her eye. Worse, a missionary
from Africa tells of their great need for doctors. Torn, Astrid doesn't know what to do and learns to “walk in the light
she has been given.”
Blessing fans will delight in this new story about the heart-warming
characters of Blessing, their struggles, their joys, heartaches, and, most of all, their faith as they love and support one
another.
A MEASURE OF MERCY is just the beginning of a new series involving the
interconnect families of Blessings ND. I'm sure fans of Snelling and of her books that take place in Blessing will love this
book that focuses on Astrid Bjorklund, while drawing in other well-known and beloved characters from earlier books. By the
end of this series, I'm sure Blessing ND will be a welcomed place in the hearts of many more fans.
HER INHERITANCE FOREVER Texas: Star of Destiny #2 By Lyn
Cote ISBN 978-0-06-137343-5 Avon Inspire Reviewer Narda McCarthy
A story where love and loyalty overcome evil ambition; where faith is
pivotal to the survival of the courageous and strong men and women that fought for the right to live in liberty in their land.
Filled with historical and cross-cultural facts, this book is more than
a romantic tale of the west; it is the story of people that loved each other ignoring race and social status; of people that
had no fear of sacrifice.
Good and entertaining.
Element of faith: Medium
STRETCH MARKS By Kimberly Stuart ISBN 978-0-7814-4892-5 David
C. Cook Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Mia couldn’t be more different from her mother Babs if she tried.
Mia is organic, while Babs is anything but. They can’t speak to each other for more than five minutes without a disagreement.
Then, Mia finds herself pregnant and alone. Who comes to her rescue? Stiletto tottering, make-up wearing, Babs, determined
to do the proper grandmother thing. And who is this grocery-store owning, Adam, who wants to be Mia’s friend? Men can’t
be trusted, so why is the guy being so nice?
STRETCH MARKS is a story of reconciliation and finding unconditional
love. It’s more than about a mother/daughter relationship. It’s about life, friends, motherhood, and love.
When Mia befriends a sixteen-year-old in the same predicament as herself,
life gets even stranger. Maybe there’s something to this church thing Babs talks about. Could it be possible God could
love someone against the institution of religion? Can His arms really be wide open, waiting for Mia?
Kimberly Stuart has skillfully crafted a story that will make you laugh
and cry through its pages as Mia falls in-love with the life growing inside her and begins to see a positive side to her zany
mother. A nine on the faith scale.
A PRISONER OF VERSAILLES A Darkness to light novel By Golden
Keyes Parsons ISBN 978-1-59554-627-2 Thomas Nelson Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
King Louis XIV sends the captain and guards to capture Madeleine Clavell
and bring her and her older son back to his court. Although Madeleine had been a childhood friend of Louis’, she had
fled from his advances when he became a ruthless king.
Madeleine and her three children had fled to Switzerland with her husband
after he was rescued from the Bastille in Paris, but he died a short time later of consumption. They now live with her brother-in-law’s
family, fellow Huguenots.
This 353-page historical is fast-paced and exciting. It portrays the
excesses of the royal court, with its intrigues and deception, in contrast with the struggles of the Huguenot Christians to
live their faith under the threat of torture and death.
Well written, I recommend Parson’s second novel in the Darkness
to Light series.
Faith element: medium.
DEADLOCK Return of the Stranger #2 By Al and Joanna Lacy ISBN
978-1-60142-055-8 Multnomah Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
Anyone who has followed the Lacy’s previous Stranger series will
like Book Two of Return of the Stranger series, written in typical Western style.
Colorado’s U.S. Marshal John Brockman, known in his earlier life
as “the Stranger,” is delayed on his way to church with his family and another marshal when outlaws ambush them.
And as they try to go about their everyday lives, outlaws continue to intrude.
The four Zarbo brothers, famous bank robbers, are about to do more than
intrude. And the Brockman family will have their faith sorely tested before justice is served.
Faith element: high.
STRAY AFFECTIONS By Charlene Ann Baumbich ISBN: 978-0-307-44471-4 Waterbrook
Press Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
I laughed, I cried, and did it again. And again. Ah! What a satisfying
book!
Anyone who’s had (or has) four small children will recognize Cassandra
Higgins’ daily bouts with both euphoria (when the children are napping) and self-doubt (when the cookies burn and set
off the alarm and the neighbors call the fire department). Yet her bubbly personality and her helpful husband keep her from
dwelling on negatives . . . until she buys this mysterious snow globe at a Collectors’ Convention, gets whacked on the
head—twice, realizes her nose is broken, is helped by a stranger with soft brown eyes, and discovers her wallet is missing.
Then things get wacky.
It’s all about a dog, or dogs. Any stray, actually. And why she
can never have them. No, it’s about moms, and dads, and disappointments too great to bear. And people who help. And
a God of second chances.
Did I mention the butcher and Bad Betty?
Yes, I recommend this book. It will lift your faith and plant a smile
on your face.
A STRING OF MURDERS A Dressed for Death Mystery By Darlene Franklin ISBN
978-1-60260-140-6 Heartsong Presents Mysteries Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Murder once again takes center stage in Cici's life. How can it not when
her fiancé Audie finds a body on the floor of her store? Far too many in their little town in Oklahoma have secrets, but when
these secrets include murder Cici realizes she must find answers to clear those she loves from even a hint of wrong-doing.
But how can do so when Audie holds a secret he refuses to share?
Will Cici find the truth before it is too late, or is it already too
late?
Another well plotted mystery from Franklin with the lovable and somewhat
eccentric characters of Grace Gulch. Franklin mixes mystery and humor, making this a fun and entertaining read.
Faith element: medium
SCARED: A Novel on the Edge of the World By Tom Davis ISBNN 978-1-5891-9102-0 David
C Cook Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Unforgettable. The imagery portrayed by Tom Davis will stay with me for
a lifetime. I loved the first-person immediacy of the narrator Stuart Daniels, a photographer who travels the world to find
THE prizewinning picture. But what he sees forever changes who he is.
The first scene, the brutal slaughter of a village in the Congo, turns
him into a cynic, a cynic who is gradually losing his edge. The second scene, a twelve year old girl, Adanna, lovingly mothering
her siblings after AIDS has taken her parents, stirs him to seek answers to their dilemma from the only one who can give them.
Skillfully written, Scared touches on subjects too awful to imagine,
yet at the same time offers hope from a loving God. Although it is a novel, it might just as well have been taken from a Swaziland
reporter’s notebook. Honestly, I believe everyone needs to read this book, if for no other reason than to realize just
how greatly God has blessed us.
Maybe we can also learn that, for some, the only God they’ll ever
see will be the smile of love on our faces, the hands that feed their hungry children or the feet that run to their aid. Faith
element: as high as you want to go.
LOVE FINDS YOU IN SISTERS, OREGON By Melody Carlson ISBN 978-1-935416-18-0 Summerside
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Hope, an attorney with a good, but unfulfilling practice in Portland,
left Sisters, Oregon never planning to return, at least not permanently. But her Nana's death draws her back for the funeral
and her Nana's will draws her back into the heart of the unresolved issues with her two sisters. Then there is Nana's handsome
attorney.
Can Hope let go long enough to listen to God's will for her future? Can
she somehow mend fences with sisters who are anything but ready to let go past hurts?
A story of how good can come out of the worst situations, if we communicate
honestly and allow God to heal and restore. A romance of struggle, marriage, divorce, hurt—healing, resolution and love.
A TASTE OF FAME The Potluck Catering Club Novel By Linda Evans
Shepherd and Eva Marie Everson ISBN 978-0-8007-3209-7 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The women of the Potluck Catering Club have done it again. In order to
help one son's film assignment, they end up as contestants on a reality show: The Great Party Showdown.
Leaving their families, and with many unresolved issues, the women must
work together to try to win the big prize—but not for themselves. But is winning even an option when personal problems
crop up and when someone is desperately trying to derail their entries?
Those who think Christians are perfect need to read this book about imperfect
women, who sin and struggle and live, but who know where to turn for answers.
Another fun, entertaining and endearing Potluck Club book from Shepherd
and Everson.
Faith element: medium
DAWN'S PRELUDE Song of Alaska #1 By Tracie Peterson ISBN 978-0-7642-0151-6 Bethany
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Lydia can only feel relief at the death of her abusive husband.
But to escape her greedy, controlling stepchildren, most older than her,
and to preserve her inheritance, she must escape. Escape she does, to her aunt in frontier Alaska. There she begins to find
healing and love until her past intrudes, seeking to destroy her peace, her new-found faith...and her life.
Can Lydia's friends protect her, and themselves, from the cruel plot
planned by her late husband's sons? Will Lydia hold on to her faith in the midst of her pain?
DAWN'S PRELUDE grips the reader from page one and draws us into the heart
of wild Alaska and into the heart of characters we aren't ready to release even when the story is wrapped up. Tracie does
nicely wrap up the story, but leaves a tantalizing opening for a sequel. I read this one in a day.
Captivating. Intriguing new series from Tracie.
Faith element: medium, but very real and well integrated into the story
SWOPE'S RIDGE Liji Evans Mysteries By Ace Collins ISBN
978-0-310-27953-2 Zondervan Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The last book in this series left Liji Evans and his investigative group
confused and in danger. This book starts with a recap that impels the reader into a story that has more twists and turns than
a maze.
Liji Evans discovers the the property that got his wife killed held only
the tip of the mystery with ties back to WW II Germany and with deadly consequences if he and his those on his team are unable
to unravel the clues. But, can they stay alive long enough to figure things out? And, is there a traitor in their midst?
Fast-paced plot, solid characters, mystery, suspense, espionage intertwined
with world travel, deadly secrets, betrayal and survival make this a book not easily put down.
THE FENCE MY FATHER BUILT By Linda S Clare ISBN 978-1-4267-0073-6 Abingdon
Press Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Her father, Joseph Pond, left her messages in his journal, but she didn’t
find them until it was too late, too late to get to know him, too late to feel his love, too late to ask him all the whys
that had stockpiled over the years. Not even a grave stone marks her loss. His ashes have been sown in the wind.
Muri arrives on her father’s desert property to settle a simple
land dispute, her teenage daughter and nine-year-old son in tow, along with all their worldly possessions. A victim of a broken
marriage herself, she is about to put her children through the same ordeal, although not by choice.
The land dispute proves to be not so simple, in fact nothing Muri faces
is simple. The trailer is trashy and occupied by an aunt and uncle that defy description. The townspeople of Murkee, Oregon
are closed and wary. Her daughter has turned into a venomous stranger. And nothing is as it seems.
I was unable to put down this book. It held my interest to the very end.
Although the faith level is low, it is the catalyst that resolves Muri’s ultimate search. A very satisfying read.
EYE OF THE GOD By Ariel Allison ISBN 978-1-4267-0068-2 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Dr. Abigail Mitchell is an expert on the Hope Diamond and in charge of
a gala featuring the cursed stone in order to bring in donations to the Smithsonian of which she is a curator.
Only Abby is also on the trail of thieves who steal art from around the
world. It angers her that they struck at a museum just after warning the museum director of the possibility. She is even more
furious because they took the one token she has of her father's love...a very distinctive ring.
Abby may have lost the ring, but she has gained a suitor...or has she?
When she is given the idea to actually wear the most guarded diamond
in the world at the gala, security is not happy. They are even less happy when plans go awry and Abby discovers that those
on whom she most depended have feet of clay. Can she make things right before she loses everything she values most?
An interesting and informative mystery (with chapters inserted on the
history of the Hope Diamond's cursed owners) with some very nice twists and a heroine who proves anything but helpless.
Faith element: very low
WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS Jubilant Soul #2 By Stacy Hawkins Adams ISBN
978-0-8007-3267-7 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
A picture is worth a thousand words, or so the saying goes. Indigo Burns
wants to be a photographer. Her life is all mapped out. She’ll work an internship at the local paper, attend grad school,
and get married. In that order. But when her boyfriend proposes then leaves for Officer Training School, the straight line
Indigo drew for herself grows wavy. When she is diagnosed with a debilitating disease, the line crooks even more.
Her family is divided on whether she should marry now, or wait. Her career
seems to be taking off despite the setbacks in her personal life, then her boyfriend tells her a secret that shatters her
world. How can she move on?
WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS is more than a portrait of a woman who possesses
talent and ambition. It’s a story of a woman’s worth in God’s eyes. Stacy Hawkins Adams has crafted a novel
with compelling characters facing some of life’s most difficult choices. A nine on the faith scale.
FOOLS RUSH IN Weddings by Bella #1 By
Janice Thompson ISBN: 978-0-8007-3342-1 Revell Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Hilarious! Everyone in the family, both his and hers, gets involved in
this unlikely meeting of opposites.
From Italy to New Jersey to Texas, the transplanted Rossi family has
run a wedding planning business since their move to Galveston Island. Now Bella Rossi has taken over of the business after
her parents’ decision to retire, but she’s not sure she’ll be able to make it go of changing it to theme
weddings. And since the meeting with her first “Club Wed” clients and their potential deejay for the Boot-scootin’
Cowboy wedding concluded with her passed out on the floor, she’s surer than ever that she will fail
Fast paced and uproariously funny, I was swept up in the raucous Italian
family. And when they meet the east Texas country folks who will take part in the cowboy wedding, strange things happen, some
of them good.
Refreshing, faith-filled, I loved Janice Thompson’s Book One of
Weddings by Bella. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
BO'S CAFE By Bill Thrall, Bruce McNicol, John Lynch ISBN
978-1-935170-04-4 Windblown Media Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Steven Kerner is living life on the fast track and angry at the world.
When his life blows up in his face, he finds himself in a part of town he hadn’t inhabited since childhood. There, he
meets an old friend of his father’s, Andy Monroe. Andy takes
Steven for a ride he’ll never forget and introduces Steven to a
person he isn’t sure he wants to meet. Himself. Steven is forced to face issues he’d rather leave buried. Can
he realize the shame he carries within? Can he bury his anger and repair his marriage before it’s too late? And who
are these people who inhabit Bo’s Café and get into Steven’s personal business?
Full of soul-searching, grace, and quirky characters, BO’S CAFÉ
is a book that will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned. Anyone who leads a fast paced life, full of rigid
schedules and high ambitions will relate to Steven Kerner’s inner struggles. A 10 on the faith scale, this novel is
far from preachy, but you’ll feel you’ve left church with a meaty message.
FIT TO BE TIED The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs #2 By Robin Lee
Hatcher ISBN 978-0-310-25806-3 Zondervan Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Cleo has been burned. She desires to know the enduring love her twin
sister has found, but Cleo would like someone who can love her as she is—a woman more at home in jeans than a dress
and on the ranch than at the sort of elegant parties her sister enjoys. For sure the English Lord sent by his arrogant father
to America as punishment, didn't qualify. Why does she have to teach this English dandy, Sherwood Statham, the basics of ranching
when his war (WW I) injuries clearly make him unfit?
But Cleo doesn't figure on Sherwood's determination to overcome, to work
hard, to make his father proud. Neither figure on the changes God works on their hearts. But is Cleo willing to give up everything
for love?
Warm, endearing characters with enough action, not to mention moments
of humor, to keep the reader reading until the end. An I-couldn't-put-it-down story. Great sequel to A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE.
Faith element: low to medium. Faith is an integral part of the story.
WHO DO I TALK TO A Yada Yada House of Hope novel By Neta
Jackson ISBN 978-1-59554-524-4 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Kristine Pratt
Who wouldn’t feel alone after arriving home one day and finding
all your belongings on the street? The transition from worker at a homeless shelter to resident isn’t an easy one for
Gabby Fairbanks. Maybe if it was just her, relocating wouldn’t have been so bad. But add to that the uncertainty of
not knowing where her husband has taken their children, the responsibility of caring for an aging mother confused enough to
keep calling her by her sister’s name, and a dog that isn’t even supposed to be there, and what had passed for
faith in days of prosperity just doesn’t seem to be enough anymore.
As Gabby reaches out for answers, the reader finds herself reaching as
well. Who do we talk to when our world crumbles around us? In a book that challenges you to examine your own faith, you will
find yourself laughing and crying with Gabby as she takes these first uncertain steps down a path into a life that she had
never imagined for herself.
This book is the start of a brand new series by Neta Jackson, author
of the popular Yada Yada books. While there’s plenty of familiar faces from her first series, this book begins a whole
new saga that doesn’t require you to have read the others to enjoy it completely. I highly recommend this exciting new
book!
Faith level: Moderate
BEACON LOVE By Darlene Franklin ISBN 978-1-60260-502-2 Heartsong
Presents Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Sam's fisherman father died at sea in an accident Sam survived,
Sam's mother took him and moved away from the small Island of Capernaum. But once he became a doctor, Sam felt the call to
return to serve the fisherman community. He didn't figure on his fear of the ocean becoming an issue or the ridicule his fear
engenders from some of the citizens. Most of all, he didn't figure his childhood friend Judith would be unmarried and helping
her father with the lighthouse next door to his cottage.
Though something sparks between Sam and Judith, her father's derision
keeps them apart, until a major storm puts the island in danger and Sam is the only thing between the sea and the woman who
holds his heart.
A sweet read of historical romance where faith replaces fear and love
conquers all.
Franklin's writing is a delight to read and her characters warm the heart.
MORNINGSONG By Shelly Beach ISBN 978-0-8254-2541-7 Kregel Publications
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Mona tries so hard to control her surroundings. But she can't, not when
her massive head injuries make even thinking difficult, much less moving one foot in front of the other. Yes, she's come a
long way since being rescued from the pounding ocean, but exhaustion dogs her at every turn.
How can she deal with Adam who wants to be more than a friend, her rebellious
niece and a sister who finally crawls too far into the bottle? And this is just the beginning. Through it all, Mona hangs
onto her faith and learns lessons of letting go, hanging on and living life to it's fullest.
The author has created deep, multifaceted characters that make complex
choices in a story that follows the lives of characters who grow and change, encoraging the reader to grow and change as well.
As someone who daily deals with disability and has dealt more than once
with head trauma, there were times I wanted to slap Mona up side the head for her response or lack thereof. My frustration
with Mona shows how involved I became with the story. This is not an “easy” read, but one filled with truth and
interesting characters who struggle yet find, in faith, forgiveness, hope and life.
This sequel to HALLIE'S HEART, nicely wraps up the stories of realistic
characters with less than perfect lives.
RAIN DANCE By Joy DeKok ISBN 978-0-9797485-9-2 Sheaf House Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
They sat side-by-side, Jonica seeing a doctor for infertility and Stacie
going in for an abortion. As they spoke, Jonica's heart broke. She left Stacie a magazine with a picture that, too late to
save her baby, drove Stacie to anger and to Jonica's house. But far from an explosion, Stacie found a broken heart, but one
of love. So began a journey of two women and the God who called them both to Himself.
This isn't just a story of two different women who struggle with decisions
made and lived. It is a story where condemnation divides and hurts, but also where God's love heals. A beautiful, if painful
story of healing and hope.
I do wonder why at such a young age (twenties), Jonica is giving up on
having a baby and why her usually sensitive husband categorically refuses to consider adoption? If you can get passed these
“bumps” in the plot, the story is beautifully and sensitively told.
Recommended reading all who consider themselves pro-life, for those dealing
with infertility, and for those who've chosen abortion. I'd like to see this in every church and public library.
THE PRAVDA MESSENGER Sequel to The Bell Messenger By Robert Cornuke
with Alton Gansky Howard Books ISBN 978-1-4165-4984-0 Reviewer Kristine Pratt
Some say the truth will set you free. But in the case of young Tanya
Novack, her ability to ‘hear’ the truth sends her fleeing from her home in Soviet Russia in 1975…and sends
her father to the gulag. Now, years later, a strange Bible pulls her out of a life of hiding and back into the spotlight,
as the KGB seek to rectify the mistake they made in letting her get away seven years ago.
In this thrilling novel set during the 1980’s when the cold war
waged and no one trusted anyone, Tanya looks for the answers. Who wants her and why? Why should history and a long dead czar
matter? And what part does the old Bible play? Does God have a plan in all this? Will she live long enough to know that that
is?
This relentless tale takes you on a journey around the world that leaves
you breathless right up until you turn that last page. While a sequel to THE BELL MESSENGER, this book stands alone easily
so you won’t get lost if you missed out on the first one (though I recommend you read it, given the chance). I very
highly recommend this one!
Faith element: Low to Medium
ONE IMPERFECT CHRISTMAS By Myra Johnson ISBN 978-1-4267-0070-5 Abingdon
Press Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
When her mother suffers a massive stroke, Natalie Pearce blames herself
for not being there that day to help her mother take down the Christmas decorations. Guilt builds a wall, shutting out her
husband and teenage daughter until she leaves them to live closer to work, and further away from the nursing home and her
comatose mother.
Her father's steadfast faith, and her tenacious teen's intervention, work together to bring
her mother home in time for the next Christmas. And, yes, you can expect another miracle. It's Christmas, after all.
The
fact that Natalie is a graphic artist working at a print shop endears me to this character; it is all so familiar. And while
Natalie goes through way too much tormenting guilt, that is also way too familiar. I identify with her. I'm thankful for the
valleys God brings us through, and you will be too.
COTTONWOOD WHISPERS By Jennifer Erin Valent ISBN 978-1-4143-3326-7 Tyndale
House Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Sometimes secrets and prejudices carry a high price, as Jessilyn Lassiter
is about to find out. She harbors a secret love for a man who still thinks of her as a child, and their relationship strains
under the pressure.
Gemma, Jessilyn’s best friend, has grown infatuated by a wealthy
white man and is blind to his racial prejudice and flaws, which leads her into costly deceptions and dangerous situations.
Things go downhill from there for the two of them and their community, with the death of a friend’s child and the branding
of a mentally ill man as the child’s murderer. Will the truth win out?
COTTONWOOD WHISPERS deals with prejudice in all its forms, the preconceived
judgments people form against one another, and the painful cost of secrets. The dialect and feel of the 1930’s South
steeps this tale, which historical readers will likely enjoy.
HONOR IN THE DUST By Gilbert Morris ISBN 978-1-4165-8746-0 Howard
Books Historical fiction Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
The year is 1497. Stuart Winslow, nephew
to an English Lord, is not born in luxury. His parents, having been disowned after their elopement, lead a poor existence
in Ireland. Regardless, Stuart's father teaches him faithfully in the Word, translating it from Latin, and he grows strong
working beside his father, learning all his skills.
His grandmother sends word that it is time from them to return, and they
come home to live in her cottage. Stuart chances to meet William Tyndale who is tutoring a neighbor, and the young mistress
of the house secretly fancies him. When King Henry VIII comes for a surprise visit, he is fascinated by Stuart's abilities
with the bow and sword, as well as his expertise as a falconer, so Stuart is lured to the court and all its temptations.
Uh-oh! Danger ahead.
Gilbert Morris brings fascinating historical characters to life in this
compelling story. It will build your faith, and inspire you with a greater appreciation of God's precious Word.
FORGIVEN Sisters of the Heart #3 By Shelley Shepard Gray ISBN
978-0-06-147447-7 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Winnie wants to be loved for herself, but so far nothing has worked out.
She feels out of place among her Amish community. When she's injured in a fire and has to spend time in a hospital, Samuel,
a childhood friend, becomes her regular visitor. Though her heart beats faster when he's around, Winnie knows they have no
future because Samuel had long before left the Amish order to further his education. He's now a college professor in the English
world.
Samuel is still welcome among the Amish, though he's no longer one of
them. Winnie doesn't want to leave. Besides the consequences for her would be devastating. Can there be a future for two who
are so different and yet...?
A sweet romance of different worlds that aren't so different after all
when two hearts are willing to listen to God. A nice wrap up to a lovely series.
AN EYE FOR AN EYE Heroes of Quantico By Irene Hannon ISBN 978-0-8007-3311-7 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Mark Sanders, a member of the elite FBI Hostage Rescue Team, is in St.
Louis recovering mentally and physically from a situation that didn't end well. He doesn't expect to renew a twenty year old
friendship or have it tested that first meeting with a sniper's bullet. But is the bullet meant for him or for counselor Emily
Lawson? Can they renew a relationship when both are under protection and, at least one of them, is still in danger?
This second in her Heroes of Quantico series has the suspense of the
first, solid character development, and a story that is hard to put down. A nice sequel that gives us an update on the characters
from AGAINST ALL ODDS.
A suspenseful, well-paced novel with characters that win your heart.
Looking forward to the next in the series.
THE HOPE OF REFUGE An Ada's House novel By Cindy Woodsmall ISBN
978-1-4000-7396-2 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Cara had to protect her daughter Lori, had to protected them both from
a stalker who had figured out her secrets--well most of them. A secret message in her mother's diary and faint memories lead
her to where her stalker would never look--among the Amish in Pennsylvania. But Cara's other world actions as well as secrets
put Cara at odds with the community. Only one is ready to come to her aid.
Will Cara finally find a place to belong or will she lose everything--including
her daughter? Will Ephraim's help make him an outsider as well?
Characters with depth make us care, the story draws us in and the struggles
force us to re-examine truth, acceptance and forgiveness in our own lives. A book about truth, and heeding God's still small
voice--wherever it may lead. A good read.
Faith element: medium
TSI: THE EYAM FACTOR Time Scene Investigators By Paul McCuster
& Walt Larimore MD ISBN 978-1-4165-6971-8 Howard Books. Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Mark was still shaky from the loss of his daughter to death and his wife
to divorce when he is called upon to discover what is going on in a compound of religious zealots in Africa. Was it mass suicide
or something much more sinister? And if it is contagious, how will they contain this potential epidemic? Can a small village
who survived the the Black Death provide an answer? And can Mark stay focused long enough to find out?
A story puzzle involving nations and agencies all brought together to
keep apocalypse from happening, but will all the knowledge and technology be enough in the face of those sworn to stop them-at
whatever cost?
If you like 24, you'll love this plot-driven story with enough character
development to make the reader not only care, but also hope for more books in this vein. Make one great movie.
Faith element: medium to high
THE BELIEVER By Ann H Gabhart ISBN 978-0-8007-3362-9 Revell
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Elizabeth Duncan will do anything not to marry her neighbor.
Even if it means taking her younger brother and sister to the nearby
Shaker town. A peaceful people, the Shakers take them in, feeding, clothing, and teaching the Duncan’s their peaceful
way of life. So, why doesn’t Elizabeth feel peace in her heart? Could it be the handsome “brother” Ethan
Boyd?
Ethan wants only to follow his training and become a good Believer. His
future is promising. Maybe he’ll be appointed to the Ministry someday. But then, a fair-faced outsider joins their village
and all his beliefs are spun in a whirl.
THE BELIEVER is a wonderful glimpse into a society of believers, with
an odd twist, that were a part of our nation’s history. Although some of their beliefs were a bit skewed, seeing a part
of the Shaker world is very enjoyable. Seeing a glimpse of the struggles to abstain from falling in love was even more so.
A ten on the faith scale, readers of Ann H. Gabhart’s latest release is guaranteed to cement you as a fan.
THE KNIGHT The Bowers Files #3 By Steven James ISBN 978-8-8007-3270-7 Revell
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Pat is caught between testifying at a new trial for a serial killer he
put away years earlier and a new, vicious serial half the country apart.
Can Pat figure out the pattern that will lead him to the killer or will
his trial testimony, if he tells the whole truth, destroy his career with the FBI and leave two serial killers on the loose?
The plot hurtles the reader forward into the depth of the heart of evil
and the meaning of justice.
Add in a new relationship and the tenuous one with his stepdaughter and
you have a well-rounded story in this third in The Bowers Files thrillers. A psychological thriller that will leave the reader
chilled.
Faith element: Very low Violence element: Very high
THE NOTICER Sometimes all a person needs is a little perspective By
Andy Andrews ISBN 978-0-7852-2921-6 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Kristine Pratt
How many books have been written to explain human nature or to examine
our relationship with God? How many do it in the form of a story so compelling that you can’t put it down?
Andy Andrews has taken this topic and presented it along with the character
of Jones, a mysterious man who comes to a city and in each interaction with those around him, teaches us something brand new
about ourselves.
Fresh and interesting, told in the way that only a storyteller could
weave, THE NOTICER teaches us about love and perspective, about how we see others, and how we see ourselves. Most important,
he teaches us about God in a way that will not leave you unchanged.
A quick read, this book is perfect for the summer. And when you’re
done, don’t be surprised if you find yourself talking about it to others. More than that, you’ll be amazed at
what you start to notice as well.
Faith Level: Moderate
THE PRAYERS OF AGNES SPARROW By Joyce Magnin ISBN 978-1-4267-0164-1 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Griselda Sparrow has taken care of her sister Agnes for as long as she
can remember. She’s used to the line of people seeking prayers from Agnes and she’s used to the stares her sister
receives. Because of the miracles happening due to the prayers of Agnes, the town’s people want to erect a sign that
welcomes visitors to their town. Then, the unthinkable happens and the town’s inhabitants are turned upside down, their
faith tilted. Could it be they had their faith in the wrong place to begin with?
Narrated by Griselda, it’s quickly noticeable that the town of
Bright’s Pond is the main character in the book, spinning tales around the Sparrow sisters. THE PRAYERS OF AGNES SPARROW
is full of characters the reader won’t quickly forget. Small town and quirky, you can’t help but love every one.
Even the crotchety old man who says Agnes is an abomination of God. With
subtle references, the reader is guided to God’s truth; not man’s. A ten on the faith scale, this is a novel that
will leave the reader looking for more stories by Joyce Magnin.
SISTERCHICKS IN WOODEN SHOES By Robin Jones Gunn ISBN 978-1-60142-009-1 Multnomah
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
When Summer Finley’s routine mammogram turns out to be anything
but, she does something completely out of character and makes a spontaneous decision to visit the Netherlands and her old
pen-pal friend, Noelle. And she decides to keep the test results to herself. Denial makes the best traveling companion. Or
so she thinks. Summer isn’t the only one with a secret.
Among the beauty of the Netherlands, and from one mishap adventure to
another, dispersed with emotional visits to important historical sites, Summer’s and Noelle’s friendship continues
to bond. Summer also discovers a few aspects of herself that need turning over to God and her “journey” from fear,
becomes a journey altogether different than she’d planned.
SISTERCHICKS IN WOODEN SHOES is another wonderful story of friendship,
God’s love, and the value of having someone to lean on. Robin Jones Gunn has done it again. A ten on the faith scale,
the reader will laugh their way through the pages while gleaning nuggets of truth along the way.
GONE TO GREEN Route 2 Series By Judy Christie ISBN 978-1-4267-0024-8 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Lois was happy for her friend when he decided not to leave the newspaper
business, but to invest in his own paper. But when he died unexpectedly leaving the paper to Lois, she gives the whole project
of owning a paper one year. She didn't expect the run-down town, the kind, gentle people or the pull they begin to have on
her.
For sure, she didn't expect she'd be challenged to find her faith again.
But what happens when the peaceful town has a dark side? Can Lois leave a town and the newspaper just when she's beginning
to make a difference?
A book of discovery of our true purpose told with a quiet, but solid
faith.
THE FRONTIERSMAN'S DAUGHTER By Laura Frantz ISBN 978-0-8007-3339-1 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Lael Click was her frontierman father's daughter. She liked the wide-open
places and felt claustrophobic even in the fort where the family had to go during the Winter or during times of danger. As
she grows and her father isn't thrilled with her choice of a mate, he takes her East to school. But Lael only wants to return
home. When she does, all is changed. Will she be able to find her way in a rapidly-changing frontier? Will she find the Lord
her brother has come to know and the fort doctor seeks her to know as well? Or, will the call of the Shawnee warrior keep
her tied to the past?
This is not a simplistic historical romance, though romance, hard won,
does play a part in the story. THE FRONTIERSMAN'S DAUGHTER is more the coming of age, the story of Lael growing into a woman
on the frontier with the clash of cultures, family problems, betrayal, revenge and a heart determined not to give up. The
characters felt real within the setting that drew the reader in both to the era and to the complex, yet intriguing, story.
My main complaint: the ending seemed too abrupt and short. Nevertheless,
THE FRONTIERSMAN'S DAUGHTER is a solid story of determination and faith.
THE CALL OF ZULINA Grace in Africa By Kay Marshall Strom ISBN
978-1-4267-0069-9 Abingdon Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
She'd grown up in Africa, the daughter of an African princess and an
English sea captain. Both parents were deep in the slave trade and both saw Grace as a means to an end. But when Grace runs
away from home to escape an arranged marriage that horrifies her, she learns what slavery truly means. When she's caught in
an uprising, Grace must decide who she is and whether true freedom is worth the loss of everything she's known.
If you're looking for a romance novel, this does not deliver. If you're
looking for a story that shows how faith makes a difference, faith plays only a minor role in this story. But if you're looking
for a solid story written with some depth and
passion, this is it.
THE CALL OF ZULINA should be must reading from teens on up to help all
of us have a better understanding of the scope of slavery in Africa itself and that it wasn't just about evil “white”
men. Slavery is much more tangled than that.
The story is compelling and not always an easy read. Grace is a wonderfully
strong woman who grows in understanding of who she is during the course of the story and a good role model for young women.
Will there be a sequel? Hope so.
FINAL EXPOSURE By Roxanne Rustand ISBN 978-0-373-44353-6 Love
Inspired Suspense Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Erin returned to the small town that caused her so much heartache
to take over the store and cabin retreat the from her grandfather so he would retire. She had to move on from the horror of
the past, but when her store is broken into and she finds herself in danger, will Erin find the peace she desires?
Jack rents a cabin from Erin. All he wants to do is put some distance
between the pain of betrayal and the death of his sister as well as provide some normalcy for his nephew Max. That seems hardly
possible when the danger surrounding his landlord Erin becomes his own and when he finds his heart involved as well.
Will these two turn to their faith and each other before it is too late?
Jack and Erin are a perfect complement in this mystery with Max and Charlie
providing delightful counterpoints. Faith is a key issue in this story where the mystery and the personal stories of Jack
and Erin unfold at precisely the right pace to keep the reader involved and reading until the last page.
While the primary mystery was neatly packaged at the end, I would have
like a bit more wrap up of the secondary mystery and Jack and Erin's personal relationship to be fully satisfied.
But, just maybe, there is another mystery in the works that will further
their story and tie up the last threads. I hope so. I wasn't ready to let these characters go.
Faith element: high
SURRENDER THE WIND By Rita Gerlach ISBN 978-1-4267-0072-9 Abingdon
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Seth fell in love with Juleah from a painting he'd seen at her uncle's
house in America. When he inherits his grandfather's English estate, he has no notion that claiming his inheritance and seeking
out his sister who was removed from America on the eve of the revolution will not only bring him into contact with Juleah,
but plunge him into a whirlwind of danger, kidnapping and murder. Will Seth be able to save those he loves from the forces
gathering around them or is it already too late?
A plot-driven historical novel that takes the reader into vortex
of danger and betrayal and holds the reader hostage to an ever deepening plot until the satisfying conclusion.
Faith
element: low
WILDFIRE Snow Canyon Ranch #3 By Roxanne Rustand ISBN 978-0-373-44281-2 Love
Inspired Suspense Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In this third and last in the Snow Canyon Ranch, the third sister, Tessa
struggles to keep the home ranch going. Only it gets more difficult when someone seems bent on seeing her fail. Break-ins,
missing cattle, fire and more overwhelm. Worst of all, the man who once held her heart and destroyed her faith, shows up on
writing/photo assignment. When she saves his life and ends up allowing him to recuperate on the ranch, she has no intention
of letting either Josh or God a place in her life...but both God and Josh have other ideas. Will Tessa allow her heart to
mend before more than just her ranch is in serious danger?
Rustand's writing paints word pictures that draws the reader into the
beautiful Wyoming rocky setting and into the heart of characters that grip the heart, even while the plot keeps that heart
in overdrive. The mystery slowly unfolds as the characters stretch to meet their problems with courage and heart. Most of
all, Rustand wraps up both each book and this series in a way that leaves the reader smiling and satisfied that this was the
best of outcomes for the story.
Rustand has become one of my new favorite authors.
Faith element: medium plus.
SNOW MELTS IN SPRING Seasons of the Tall Grass By Deborah Vogts ISBN
978-0-310-29275-3 Zondervan Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
All Mattie wanted was to live in her beloved Kansas Flint Hills ranch
country and establish her veterinarian practice. What she didn't figure on was full-time care of Dusty, an old rodeo horse
who might not survive the accident with drunk drivers or her her run-ins with Dusty's owner, the recently retired football
star, Gill. Though sparks both positive and negative fly between Mattie and Gill, will anything permanent come of their connection
when she clings to her beloved Hills and while hurtful memories keeps driving Gil away?
Well-drawn characters and a cohesive, compelling story that draws the
reader into the heart of forgiveness, second chances....and love.
Faith element: Medium
NEVER THE BRIDE By Cheryl McKay & Rene Gutteridge ISBN 978-0-307-44498-1 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
What would you do if God showed up in your bedroom and sat Indian style
on your bed? He looked nothing like what Jessie Stone pictured him as. In fact, God is kind of cute. And funny. And Jessie
thinks she’s losing her mind. So does everyone around her. Especially when she starts acting on the God’s suggestions.
So what, if she’s always said He’s never helped her? So what
if she has her life planned out in over a hundred journals? Why can’t God just make things easy and give her the man
she desires? Then God asks for her precious purple-feathered pen and life will never be the same.
NEVER A BRIDE
is a hilarious love story. If only Jessie Stone can find that “one true love”. An amazing allegory, about God’s
unconditional love for us, NEVER A BRIDE will have the reader laughing and crying through every page. You’ll never look
at God the same way again. A ten on the faith scale.
MONTANA ROSE By Mary Connealy ISBN 978-1-60260-142-0 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Cassie had just buried her husband when it seemed every unattached male
in the Montana frontier town sought her hand in marriage. When things got ugly, Red stepped in protect her, claiming "China
Doll" for himself.
But what was he to do with a spoiled lady when he needed a real helpmate
on his ranch? What he didn't realize was she wasn't spoiled, just cowed and frightened. Can these two forge a real marriage
on who they are in Christ?
Another solid, uplifting story from Connealy with less-than-perfect characters
you hope to meet again in a sequel.
Faith element: Medium, redemptive
MENU FOR ROMANCE By Kaye Dacus ISBN 978-1-60260-455-1 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Event planner, Meredith had loved Major, the Chef of her parent's upscale
restaurant, for eight years. But Major seemed to want nothing more than friendship. With her time clock ticking, Meredith
is ready to give up and find someone who will love her and who will become a life-partner.
She has no idea how her decision both relieves and troubles Major. But
how can he declare his love when he cannot tell her his greatest shame. his family ties.
Will these two be able to move past their self-imposed secrets, timetables
and limits to allow God to work in their lives and give them the desires of their heart?
A sweet romance that gives us characters worth reading about, a family
most would envy and a heart-warming story of forgiveness, hope, perseverance and love.
Faith element: low to medium
A DREAM TO CALL MY OWN Brides of Gallatin County #3
By Tracie Peterson ISBN 978-0-7642-0150-9 Bethany House Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Lacy cannot let go her need to find her father's killer. With her sisters
married and settled, Lacy decides it is time finally find her father's killer. Only a stop at a ranch, a run in with the deputy
sheriff who is in love with her and growing danger at home changes everything.
Will Lacy find the peace she desires and discovers who she is in Christ
before she loses those closest to her?
Lacy is the “different” sister, the one who prefers to ride
horse and wear britches to more ladylike pursuits. While this is Lacy's story, the book draws us further into the lives of
all three sisters. A DREAM TO CALL MY OWN pulls the strands of the three sisters stories into a concluding story, rife with
danger, faith and romance, that has readers not only turning the pages, but also leaving them with a smile of satisfaction.
While you don't need to read the first two books in this series (each
focused on a different sister) to enjoy this book, doing so does add to the depth of the story.
Faith element: high
LOVE FINDS YOU IN LIBERTY INDIANA By Melanie Dobson ISBN 978-1-934770-74-0 Summerside
Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Anna Brent, a Quaker abolitionist, believes with all her heart that God’s
people includes everyone. Even those born or sold into slavery. Her home is one of the stops on the Underground Railroad.
When a young woman and her newborn child show up on Anna’s doorstep, they bring with them a danger Anna may be ill-equipped
to handle.
THE JEWEL OF HIS HEART 
