If you'd like to contribute to the continuation of Author's Choice
Reviews, please click the DONATION button. Thank you.--Privacy of each individual is vigorously protected,
nor will you be added to an email list. (Donations Not tax deductible.)
Reviews added daily
to this site.
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.
Then a law is passed saying anyone caught helping or harboring runaway
slaves will be fined and imprisoned. Can Anna give up what she believes is right, even when her secret is threatened? Can
she trust Daniel Stanton, the town’s abolitionist newspaper man? Can she make the ultimate sacrifice in order to save
the life of an innocent?
LOVE FINDS YOU IN LIBERTY INDIANA is not only a love story. It is a history
lesson of what of our nation’s most horrifying eras. Through Anna Brent’s beliefs, Melanie Dobson takes the reader
into a suspenseful, page-turning triumph of God’s love for us and our fellow man. A ten on the faith scale.
THE NIGHT WATCHMAN By Mark Mmynheir ISBN 978-1-59052-935-5 Multnomah
Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Ray Quinn’s identity was in his job as a homicide detective, and
he had long since established his reputation as the best in his department. When a terrible shooting leaves him physically
unable to return to the force, he feels life is no longer worth living, and sinks into depression. He spends his nights as
a watchman for a local apartment complex, and his days in a drunken stupor.
When two dead bodies turn up in one of the apartments, Ray gets thrust
into action once again. He must untangle a dark and complex mystery before his investigation gets him killed.
Due to the nature of the corruption that Ray encounters in his battle
for justice, NIGHT WATCHMAN is more suited for mature readers. A gritty, realistic novel that will keep suspense fans turning
pages.
Faith element: low
LOVE FINDS YOU IN TREASURE ISLAND FLORIDA By Debby Mayne ISBN 978-1-934770-80-1 Summerside
Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
After being left at the altar, Amanda Burns has put her life on hold
to operate a bicycle shop and to care for her flighty sister. No way is she interested in a relationship. Especially with
a tourist. But when Jerry Simpson returns to Treasure Island on his annual vacation with his parents, Amanda’s life
is turned upside down.
Just when she’s reconciling herself to the fact that Jerry is different
from her ex-fiance, and that maybe they can forge something special, Jerry and his parents move back to Atlanta. What is God
doing with Amanda’s heart?
LOVE FINDS YOU IN TREASURE ISLAND is a love story about finding treasure.
With fun, quirky characters, the reader is drawn into small town life with alls its up and downs. Sometimes the treasure we
find, isn’t what we were looking for. A ten on the faith scale.
A PASSION DENIED Daughters of Boston #3 By Julie Lessman ISBN
978-0-8007-3213-4 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
All Elizabeth O’Connor wants is for John Brady to love her as a
woman, not as the little girl he sees her being. She craves the romantic love she reads in novels and witnesses in the marriages
of her sisters and parents. Yet time after time, Brady pushes her away, claiming he’s unfit for the type of love she
wants. What deep dark secret does Brady have in his past that keeps him from returning Lizzie’s love?
She aims to find out, even if it puts their tenuous relationship in danger.
Then a stranger from Brady’s past shows up and woes Lizzie in the way she’s dreamed. Can Brady see what he’s
losing before it’s too late? Can he and Lizzie rely on their faith to strengthen and repair the damage?
Julie Lessman has done it again. A PASSION DENIED is more than just a
love story between Lizzie and Brady. It is also the continuation of the stories told in books one and two, adding in the fiery
romance of Lizzie’s parents. Although a ten on the faith scale, this book is red hot in the steamy department!
BLOOD BAYOU By Karen Young ISBN 978-1-4165-8757-7 Howard Books Reviewer
Sarah Sawyer
Camille St. James champions the innocent that have been unjustly
imprisoned. Just when her uprogram “Truth Project” takes off, the man she succeeds in freeing is implicated in
a new murder case—a case that throw her into the path of her ex-husband Jack. Since the painful circumstances
surrounding their divorce, she has not spoken to him, but now they are forced to work together. She struggles to trust him,
viewing his claim of God’s transformation of his life with the same skepticism she holds toward God himself.
As they investigate the murder, both Camille’s livelihood and her
life are threatened. The stakes are high, and she cannot figure out who to trust. What will happen when her own strength and
expertise fail her?
A suspenseful read that will keep you flipping the pages until the end.
Faith element: medium
TEXAS HEAT Lone Star Intrigue By Debra White Smith ISBN 978-0-06-149316-4 Avon
Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Charli returned to her hometown after a failed marriage, she had
no idea her former, and only real love, would end up arresting her for embezzling from the place she worked—a bank.
Police Chief Jack Mansfield isn't too happy about the situation either. It certainly doesn't put him back in her good graces,
or the graces of her precious little daughter. But if Charli didn't do the crime, who did?
So begins a journey of discovery for Charl and for Jack to find the truth.
But will they find it in time to save Charli's life?
A sweet, warm romance of suspense, faith and love with a set of characters
you aren't ready to let go once the story is wrapped up (very nicely and without gore). Good news.. You don't have to. This
series continues with the next Mansfield brother.
Faith element: low
THINGS LEFT UNSPOKEN By Eva Marie Everson ISBN 978-0-8007-3273-8 Revell
Fiction/Contemporary Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Jo-Lynn Hunter intentionally leaves her husband at home in Atlanta
when she travels to her favorite Uncle Jim’s funeral in Cottonwood. Her grandparents’ house, known affectionately
as the “big house,” has always been special to her. When its present owner Aunt Stella asks her to stay and refurbish
the mansion, she doesn’t have to deliberate. Having been left out of her husband’s meteoric climb up the social
ladder, she jumps at the chance to do something besides being a trophy wife. After all, interior design is what she does best.
The once booming farm town is gasping its last breath when a well-known
developer of historic towns tries to take on Cottonwood as its newest project. All but a few diehards agree it is a good thing.
Then the pranks begin—harmless at first, then deadly. Someone wants the project stopped, and Jo-Lynn is caught in the
crossfire.
Everson not only portrays a once prosperous small town well, but walks
you down its streets into its heart. You’ll find yourself rooting for Jo-Lynn’s family even when it looks like
the patriarchs were involved in unsavory activities, even murder. It is well-written, and a joy to read; a truly unique love
story. Faith level, low, but I highly recommend it.
THE KIDNAPPING OF KENZIE THORN By Liz Johnson ISBN 978-0-373-44348-2 Steeple
Hill Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Kenzie had no idea why she was drawn to, Myles, the newest inmate in
her prison educational program. But when he kidnaps her can she believe he did it to keep her safe? Can she believe he is
really an FBI agent sent to protect her? Why? Who would want to harm her?
So begins a journey of discovery, betrayal, disappointment, danger...and
love as Kenzie draws on her faith, stubbornness and common sense to unravel the mystery surrounding her kidnapping.
Well-developed characters and a mystery plot with enough twist and romance
to keep the reader turning pages. Vintage Steeple Hill and a nice introduction novel from author Liz Johnson.
A GIFT OF GRACE By Amy Clipston ISBN 978-0-310-28983-8 Zondervan
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Finally Rebecca has children. Why her sister made provision for her Amish
sister to raise her children should something happen didn't matter as much as the love Rebecca had to give her teenage nieces.
But while Lindsay fits into the Amish lifestyle, Jessica does not. In
fact, everything she does turns out wrong--especially when some in the community, including Rebecca's husband, are ready to
blame her for every misstep.
Will Rebecca find a way to mother her nieces and keep her marriage intact,
or is God's plan larger than Rebecca's determination to honor her sister's last wish? A story of forgiveness and hope.
This is the first of a series. Be interesting to see where the author
takes this story that explores the traditions of Old Order Amish, Mennonite and the modern world.
Faith element: medium
EXPOSURE By Brandilyn Collins ISBN 978-80310276432 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Kaycee was used to looking over her shoulder after a lifetime of living
with her paranoid mother. But her mother was gone and Kaycee's fears have taken on a life of their own. Only they aren't fears.
They are real, at least until the police arrive. Where is God when Kaycee's life spins out of control, when her fears impact
those she cares for?
Can Kaycee deal with her fears long enough to focus on finding the truth?
Will she finally trust the only One who can really help?
Two mysteries for the price of one and a twist that will shock even jaded
mystery readers. “Don't forget to breathe.”
Warning: Lock the doors before opening the book.
Faith element: low
ENDURING LOVE Sidney Cove #3 By Bonnie Leon ISBN 978-0-8007-3178-6 Revell
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
John and Hannah Bradshaw want nothing more than to leave their past behind
and build a successful sheep ranch in Australia. Their family grows as they adopt a young boy. Love coats the four walls of
their home. Life is perfect. Then the unthinkable happens, and everything they hold dear is ripped away.
When John’s supposedly dead wife arrives in town and wants to rekindle
their marriage, Hannah turns to her faith to sustain her during this hardest of times, choosing to turn the other cheek instead
of retaliation. But rumors fly and she finds herself thrust into deception and danger. Can she do something that may drive
John away for good if it reveals an ugly truth?
ENDURING LOVE is a love story between a husband and wife. Strong in faith,
the story pulls the reader within the pages to cheer for John and Hannah. To cry with them when their world is shattered.
To laugh with them when joy arises. A ten on the faith scale.
GOLD OF KINGS By
Davis Bunn ISBN 978-1-4165-5631-2 Howard Books Reviewer Keith W Scheidies
Sean Syrrell
is murdered. His granddaughter, Storm, is determined to discover the legacy he left for her. Along the way, she comes in contact
with treasure hunter, Harry Bennett, released from prison due to Syrrell's influence, as well as the attorney hired by her
grandfather, Emma Webb. Webb offers important and useful connections to assist Storm in her quest..or does she?
If you are
a fan of the “National Treasure” and Indiana Jones' movies, you'll enjoy following the characters of GOLD OF KINGS
as they seek the treasure stolen from the Jerusalem Second Temple before it was destroyed.
Faith element:
medium
SAINTS IN LIMBO By River Jordon ISBN 978-0-307-44670-1 Waterbrook Reviewer
Cynthia Hickey
On her birthday, Velma True receives a gift from a stranger.
Kept to her yard by strands of thread, she’s afraid of being pulled
from life. Yet, it seems as if her gift does exactly what she fights not to succumb to. She shares the experience with her
loved ones, not knowing they will all be thrust into a fight of good versus evil. The gift is not what it seems; sometimes
appearing more curse than blessing. When darkness threatens, the gift surprises Velma and her family with strengths they weren’t
aware they possessed.
SAINTS IN LIMBO is an allegory. Beneath its clever dialogue and lyrical
narrative lies a story of thankfulness. A masterfully hid message. A delightful surprise lies within the pages of River Jordan’s
novel. A page turner of suspenseful proportions. The faith element is subtle, but there. The reader needs only to look for
it. A five on the faith scale.
TURNING THE PAIGE By Laura Jensen Walker ISBN 978-0-310-27698-2 Zondervan
Reviewer Holly Wolfe
Paige Kelley is thirty-five and hanging on her mama's apron strings.
It’s about the only place she can hang, since her marriage broke up and she lost her job. It doesn’t matter that
those disasters happened primarily because of the manipulations of said mother; Paige just can’t turn off the guilt.
She’s a good Christian girl and wants to do right, but it’s a struggle to determine where obligation to her mother
ends and her own life begins.
The second installment in the Getaway Girls series, Turning the Paige,
is a light-hearted look at the relationships that drive us. Join Paige as she finds peace with who she is and where she fits.
It’s a story with touches of humor, romance, good friendship, and a tour of Scotland that’s worthy of a travel
guide.
The ending seemed a bit abrupt, but since it is part of a series, I’m
sure that the next book will contain more threads of Paige’s tale. A word of caution: reading Laura Jensen Walker’s
novel will create strong urges to form your own Getaway Girls group!
Faith element is medium.
WIND OF THE SPIRIT The American Patriot Series Book 3 By J. M.
Hochstetler ISBN 978-0-9797485-3-0 Sheaf House Reviewer Kristine Pratt
Timing is everything. Elizabeth Howard has built her life around being
in the right place at the right time. As a spy for General Washington during the Revolutionary War, she is used to relying
on herself – on her quick wits and cunning to stay one step ahead of the British forces.
Being in the right place at the right time has affected Colonel Jonathon
Carleton as well. He’s gone from prisoner of the Seneca to position as war chief of the Shawnee tribe under the name
of White Eagle. Being where he is now has enabled him to bring victory against the encroaching white settlers into Indian
lands.
For over a year these star-crossed lovers couldn’t have been further
apart. But now, with New York fallen to the British, General Washington needs his Colonel back, and Elizabeth is just the
one to take on the task. Only the timing couldn’t have been worse…they’ve been apart too long and are both
contemplating marriage…to someone else.
Can two such fiercely independent people accept that God’s timing
isn’t their own? Everything around them is changing and only by keeping their eyes on the One who never changes, can
the survive the coming storm and find that perhaps this time is theirs after all.
A dramatic and passionate story, WIND OF THE SPIRIT picks up where DAUGHTER
OF LIBERTY and NATIVE SON left off, though you don’t need to have read the rest of the series to follow the action.
(But trust me, after reading this, you’re going to want to read the books that came before!) With action and lots of
enthusiasm J. M. Hochstetler weaves a tale that will take you so vividly back to the Revolutionary War that you’ll feel
you’re right there in the midst of the action. With a clear message about God’s faithfulness, this book will leave
you wanting more, eagerly anticipating the next volume in the series.
Faith Element Medium
THREE TIMES BLESSED By Lori Copeland ISBN 978-0-06-136493-8 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In this second book of the Belles of Timber
Creek, Audrey and Copper return to Timber Creek. Both have been offered teaching jobs in nearby towns. But Audrey's position
has disappeared before she arrived. Now she's dependent on her friend Willow. When rain that refuses to let up deluges the
town and a strange illness hits a wagon train stopped nearby due to the rain, Audrey and her friends must find a way to survive
as they reach out to those needing their help.
Will the man who holds Audrey's heart, be able
to move beyond his pain to find in Audrey a true helpmate?
As always, Copeland is excellent at setting
the scene and drawing the reader deeper into the lives of her characters. Her stories make us cheer on the heroines as they
overcome enormous odds, doing so with grit, humor and faith.
As I reached the last page I looked on for the
next chapter only to find author's notes instead. What! This book ended quietly, leaving me blinking back to reality unfocused
and a bit confused at the ending or lack thereof.
Not necessarily a bad thing. It does mean that
this is a series you'll want to get from beginning to end so you can continue the story of Willow, Audrey and Copper.
Want the next book--NOW--to find out how the
story ends!
Faith element: low to medium
ROSE HOUSE By Tina Ann Forkner ISBN 978-1-4000-7359-7 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Holly Wolfe
After suffering a devastating loss, Lillian Diamon empties her grief
into the soothing gardens of a house covered with roses. This cottage, set in the lush California wine country, sparks a ray
of hope and ignites a mystery. On a return visit, Lillian discovers an anonymous painting in a local gallery that captured
her private moment of anguish in amazing detail. Her quest to discover the artist that invaded her privacy weaves like a garden
path; like gorgeous blooms, there’s beauty in the sense of healing and in the budding love story, but like thorns amidst
the roses, there’s pain in the secrets and the heart-breaking betrayals.
In Rose House, Tina Ann Forkner paints a multi-layered picture that is
so rich in texture and detail that you are there. From vivid scenery to intense emotion, you live the story with Lillian.
Grief, betrayal, lies and secrets give way to forgiveness, healing, hope and love; and all in a rich atmosphere that will
make you consider the Sonoma Valley for your next vacation.
Faith element: medium.
DEADLY CHARM An Amanda Bell Brown Mystery By Claudia Mair Burney ISBN 978-1-4165-5195-9 Howard Books. Reviewer:
Kristine Pratt
It isn’t a sin to be charming, but what that man does with that
charm is another matter entirely…
Amanda Bell Brown is way to canny to buy into the fallen preacher’s
persona…there’s no way that sweet talker can be the voice of God. Especially when he keeps insisting that she’s
pregnant, something she KNOWS can’t possibly have happened to her.
But when Ezekiel Thunder’s child drowns, Bell is positive that
it was no accident. The problem is she needs a little help from her estranged husband Jazz and her best friend (the very reason
for that estrangement), Rocky. There’s no way this sort of teamwork can possibly work, well not unless God steps in
and brings the truth to Llght. Hopefully before anyone gets hurt this time around.
In this exciting page-turner I met Bell and Jazz for the first time,
though this is their third book together. You don’t need to read the other books to immediately get a sense for these
characters and their remarkable chemistry. I ran the gamut on emotions as I devoured this mystery, going from laughter to
tears in the space of pages. And when the mystery came to a satisfying (and no, you won’t see this one coming) conclusion,
I hope you’ll do what I did and run out to get the other books by Claudia Mair Burney. You won’t regret it!
Faith element: Medium
THE RELUCTANT COWGIRL A McCord Sister Romance By
Christine Lynxwiler Barbour Publishing ISBN 978-1-60260-150-5 Reviewer Kristine Pratt
When do you let go of a dream? And when do you
hang on?
When Crystal’s twin sister dies, Crystal
throws everything she has into making their dream of being on Broadway a reality. But when everything comes tumbling down.
Crystal runs back home to her family’s Arkansas ranch. After all, her parents need her help to run the place. But it’ll
take more than her acting skills to keep her composure when handsome neighbor Jeremy Buchanan shows up.
Jeremy’s had some dreams of his own. But
wealth and the ranch he’s planned for his entire life mean nothing now that his precious daughter is gone. It’s
time to rebuild those dreams. Will that mean a family that might someday include Crystal? As things seem to come together
for Jeremy, Chrystal is forced into a decision. Has she been living her dream or her sister’s? And is it OK to leave
behind a dream that was never hers to begin with?
Drama abounds in this contemporary romance.
While it explores characters so realistic they come right off the page, questions are raised that stick with the reader long
after the last page is read. What is the importance of following your dream? And where does God’s leading figure into
all this? I highly recommend read about a family you wish you could call your own.
Faith Element: Medium
JULLIAN DARE Modern Retelling of Jane Eyre By Melanie M Jeschke ISBN 978-0-8007-3316-2 Revell Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Julian couldn't wait to take on the job of nanny for a precious little
girl. What she hadn't figured on was her response to Cadence's father Ethan. But when she begins receiving threatening emails
and worse, Julian begins a journey of fear and romance that tests her commitment not only to Ethan and Cadence but also to
her faith. Will her decisions lead to healing and hope or total despair?
This could well be the book Bronte would have written today. A sweet
romance that leaves the reader with a sigh of contentment and a desire to read Bronte's classic.
Faith element: Medium
BELOVED COUNTERFEIT Fairweather Key #3 By Kathleen Y'Barbo ISBN 978-1-60260-342-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Ruby found grace and acceptance for she and her nieces on Fairweather
Kay, but then, her new friends didn't know who she'd been, didn't know her “daughters” were really the children
of a notorious pirate, and didn't know danger still lurked. But when Micah stormed her heart and wouldn't take no for an answer,
Ruby finds love. But will that love last when her past catches up to her? Is forgiveness for real? And is Micah different
from the men in her past who've merely amused and abused her for their pleasure?
I must admit to some frustration with this third in the series, especially
at the end, after everything, Micah still didn't allow Ruby to fully explain. In not doing so, leaves Ruby without the support
she needed at that time. By the end, I would have thought they would both have figured out full disclosure brings healing
and help. That said, the characters had depth, the plot carried the reader forward and, even though I wanted, alternately,
to slap the hero and heroine silly, I also didn't want to put the book down.
A story of brokenness, forgiveness, healing ...and love.
Faith element: medium to high
JOURNEY TO THE WELL By Diana Wallis Taylor ISBN 978-0-8007-3309-4 Revell Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Without
explanation, fourteen-year-old Marah is sent to Jacob's well by her only living relative, Aunt Reba. Carrying her jar out
of town, she daydreams about the day she can marry her poor friend Jesse, but when she returns she finds herself engaged to
an older craftsman, and her petulant aunt considerably richer. Less than a year later, she is the mother of a stillborn son,
and a widow to husband number one.
Her mother-in-law's grief is so unbearable her mind snaps, so Marah nurses
Athalia through her dementia. But in one of her lucid moments, Athalia makes Marah and her younger son promise to marry in
order to carry on her first son’s name. Before the marriage takes place, husband number two hands her a bill of divorcement
and skips town before the high priest can stone him for his preferred lifestyle.
So goes Mara’s, life,
husband after husband. Until she meets someone at Jacob’s well. If you like biblical fiction, you will love this true-to-the-times
account of the woman at the well, and the miraculous outcome of Christ’s visit to this Samaritan town.
VEILED FREEDOM By J M Windle ISBN 978-1-4143-1475-4 Tyndale House Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
When Amy Mallory, a teenage Sunday School teacher, and her class send
a picture, a letter, and a small New Testament to a soldier heading for Afghanistan in 2001, it will have far-reaching effects.
Her dream is to go there some day and make a difference, like the soldier is doing, but she is only sixteen, so for the time
being, she must stick to praying for him.
Steve Wilson thinks they are setting the country free from tyranny, but
he soon finds out the new rulers are not much better than the Taliban.
Eight years later he returns to Afghanistan, this time as head of a private
security group commissioned to protect to these same rulers. The same day, he rescues the grown-up version of that Sunday
School teacher (whose picture he has kept) as she tries to help a small child after a suicide bombing. "You!" they both say
at the same time.
Although I felt uncomfortable being moved out of my American comfort
zone into the real Afghanistan, I grew to love Amy and the women and children she rescues. And I began to understand the real
situations that exist in this foreign land. It will definitely change the way I pray for these people. This book is so well
written, I cannot recommend it highly enough. The gospel is clearly lived, and shared. One person really can make a difference.
A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE By Robin Lee Hatcher ISBN 978-616-698-3331
(Check ISBN #) Zondervan Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A new century. A new type of woman, one not afraid to stand on her own.
But even Gwen hesitates when her sister encourages her to run for Mayor of the small Idaho town. When Gwen realizes the only
other choice is a drunk, she files, only to discover the wealthy owner of the spa being built has also filed.
Will these two stop fighting one another long enough to recognize the
real danger from someone who seeks to destroy them if he can't control them?
A story of faith, love and romance with a hint of suspense. Vintage Hatcher
with solid characters and a writing style that draws the reader back in time and into the story. A book to read with a hot
drink and a comfortable chair.
Faith Element: low to medium
BREATHE By Lisa T Bergren ISBN 978-1-4347-6708-0 David C Cook Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Odessa just needs to make it to Colorado Springs from her home on the
East Coast. The sanatorium to which her father sends her offers she and her siblings hope she might actually live to see another
day. And the treatment works. Odessa makes friends as she begins the long journey to health, friends that give her incentive
to keep fighting the consumption.
While her brother and sister set up the bookshop in town and get acquainted
with some interesting characters, Odessa is trying to stay alive and not just because of the illness that keeps seeking to
drag her down. For things aren't quite what they appear at her sanctuary. Events around her spiral out of control when she
loses a new friend who just may not have had a natural end. But can Odessa and her friend Bryce find the truth before they
are laid low, not from the illness that brought them to the sanatorium, but from another sinister force all together?
An intriguing romance mystery set in the wild and beautiful historical
mountains of Colorado.
Faith Element: low to medium
CANDY-COATED SECRETS A Summer Meadows Mystery #2 By Cynthia Hickey ISBN
978-1-60260-185-7 Barbour Publishing: Heartsong Presents Mystery Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Summer didn't mean to be pulled into a mystery, but then a circus crashes
in front of her house. How can she say no when asked to walk Ginger the elephant to the fair grounds? Who knew that once on
the grounds, she'd run headlong into a murder?
When the murderer turns attention to Summer, how can she not try to solve
the mystery? But will she do so before those she loves and who seek to keep her safe are touched by the danger as well?
A fast-paced, fun romp with an eccentric cast of characters and a disaster-prone
heroine who nevertheless manages to put the pieces of the puzzle together. In doing so, she learns to let go a secret guilt
she's been carrying for years and to trust her Savior not only for her salvation, but also for safety.
Faith element: medium+
THE PASSION OF MARY-MARGARET By Lisa Samson Thomas Nelson ISBN
978-1-59554-2113 Reviewer Kristine Pratt
Mary-Margaret loved God with all her heart, and set up her life to follow
only Him. Then He asked her to do the impossible.
When Mary-Margaret met Jude Keller she was just a child. But even at
that tender age, and even with a certain awareness blossoming between her and the handsome rebel, she knew she was destined
to be Jesus’ bride, not man’s. Then on the eve of taking her final vows to become a nun, God tells her very clearly,
no. Instead he wants her to marry Jude.
What is the true cost of obedience? Mary-Margaret finds that out
as she lays it all on the line – reputation, profession, even her life –for the man that the world has written
off.
A thought provoking and delicious read, Lisa brings you a story with
such depth and emotion that you can’t help but be pulled along as Mary-Margaret looks back over her life. You will never
look at what it means to live your faith the same way again. Nor will you forget quickly the characters, who jump off the
page to become both friend and mentor. I highly recommend this fantastic book.
Faith content: Moderate to high.
MISS MATCH An Allie Fortune Mystery By Sara Mills ISBN 978-0-8024-6927-4 Moody
Publishers Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
MISS MATCH delves back into the life of Allie Fortune, the only female
private investigator in 1947 New York City. Regrets over her long-missing fiancé still haunt her, and she strives to uncover
any information that might reunite them—with no success. At the same time, she juggles a busy caseload.
Jack, an FBI agent who worked with Allie in a previous case, receives
a mysterious message from his former girlfriend in East Berlin, pleading for his help. He and Allie push everything aside
to solve this new case. The cost is high for both Allie and Jack as they fall into new adventures, these ones inextricably
linked to their pasts. They face difficult decisions about when to embrace the past and when to let go.
Mystery, suspense, and touches of romance combine to provide a satisfying
story. The cliff-hanger ending will leave you eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Faith element: medium
ENDURING JUSTICE Defender of Hope Series #3 By Amy Wallace ISBN
978-1-60142-014-5 Multnomah Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Hanna ran away when the walls protecting her hurtful past crumbled. Now
she's back trying to pick up the pieces of her life, but how can she when her past crashes into the case her brother and the
man who has captured her heart is trying to solve? Can she tell them the truth and find healing or will it crush them all?
Can faith sustain them when evil seems to triumph?
The author digs deep into the minds and hearts of the reader, forcing
us to face our own fears and prejudices, forcing us to choose faith and healing or anger, bitterness and walls.
ENDURING JUSTICE offers characters of richness and depth, suspense that
curls the stomach and a story that propels the reader to turn the next page and the next.
Faith element: medium, but very integral to the lives of the characters.
YESTERDAY'S EMBERS A Clayburn Novel By Deborah Raney ISBN 978-1-4165-9309-6 Howard Books. Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Mickey loved her daycare kids, but longed for a husband and a family
of her own. When Douglas loses his wife and youngest child, he is lost dealing with his pain--and his five remaining children.
When the two are thrown together, Mickey thinks she's found love and
her purpose, along with a family. Douglas has found an answer for his pain--or has he?
Marriage seems the answer for two people in love until reality, children
still struggling with loss, and the past intrudes. Can Douglas and Mickey find the true key to healing and love?
There were times during this read I really identified with the oldest
daughter and times I was furious with Douglas, even as I groaned for Mickey. The story was engaging and so, sadly, true-to-life.
Raney's books are seldom "light" reading. She has a way of digging beneath
the surface, shredding emotions, then putting the reader, and her characters, back together again stronger, at peace and on
a solid foundation of faith. A good read.
Recommended reading for those who've recently lost a spouse and for those
longing to find that Mr. Right.
A GIFT OF GRACE Amy Chipston ISBN 978-0-310-28983-8 Zondervan Fiction/Christian/General Reviewer:
Elisabeth H. Bantz
Rebecca "Becky" Kauffman, who has remained childless through fifteen years of marriage, believes
her prayers are answered when she is awarded custody of her two nieces after her "English" sister and brother-in-law are killed
in a car accident in Virginia.
Fourteen-year-old Lindsay fits right in with her Pennsylvania Amish relatives,
but sixteen-year-old Jessica balks from the start. Their sudden presence is causing a strain on Becky’s marriage. And
the community gossip-mongers could just prove to be the last straw.
A moving story worth reading, I recommend this Amish tale. It demonstrates
the flaws of both the "English" way of life, and the Amish traditions, using scripture as the sword that both cuts and heals.
KATT'S IN THE CRADLE Secrets From Lulu's Cafe By Ginger Kolbaba & Christy Scannell ISBN 978-1-4165-4389-3 Howard
Books Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Felicia, Mimi, Lisa, and Jennifer regularly meet at Lulu’s Café,
looking for support and encouragement in their challenging roles as pastors’ wives. As if being a pastor’s wife
isn’t hard enough, their families are in turmoil.
Felicia is caught in a family feud, and faces a difficult decision on
whether or not to have another child. Mimi’s live-in alcoholic father puts a major strain on their family with his trouble-making
behavior. Lisa’s church teeters on the verge of a split, and her mother—another pastor’s wife—gives
her no support through her trials. Jennifer is followed around town by a stalker, and her mother hides important secrets from
her. While each woman struggles with unique issues, their problems all center on family and church life, particularly the
difficulty of relating properly to your parents as an adult. They must grow in faith, or be defeated by their problems.
Following four women means less time to connect with each one, but their
struggles to balance family life and the expectations of others will make them easy to identify with for many women. A relational
novel that delves into the very real struggles of life.
Faith element: medium
A LOVE TO LAST FOREVER Brides of Gallatin County Book Two By Tracie
Peterson ISBN 978-0-7642-0149-3 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Beth Gallatin is so happy not to be moving from place to place. Since
her father's death, she and her sisters have settled in to running the stage stop in a small town in the Montana frontier.
But while she longs to stay put and never move again, her heart longs for love...and not the kind found next door at the saloon.
Beth hardly knows where to turn when her younger sister grows tired of
waiting for the law to find their father's killer, when events next door prompt them into unwise actions and when evil seems
to be closing in on all sides. With an uncertain future, will Beth reach for the truest love of all? Or will circumstances
and her own scarred heart keep her from hearing that still small voice?
There is something about Tracie's writing style that sooths away my tension
even as it engages my mind and heart. In this second of the series, we come face to face with guilt and pasts we must let
go. A wonderful story of faith and love with an memorable set of characters. I can't wait for the next in the series.
Another winner from Tracie.
DECEIVED By James Scott Bell ISBN 978-0-310-26904-5 Zondervan Reviewer
Holly Wolfe
Rocky, short for Roxanne, is a sharp freelance insurance investigator.
When her brother, Arty, is accidentally killed in a hike through the local canyons, her deception antennae broadcast full
alert. Her sister-in-law, Liz, swears it was an accident and dons her weeping widow robes, going so far as to make a dramatic
conversion to Christianity even before her husband’s funeral.
Arty’s friend Mac is a Gulf War vet who's just released from prison,
but his Christianity is rock solid. He joins Rocky on the quest to sort truth from lies. Will he discover that Liz is really
a new sister in Christ or a spider spinning her web?
DECEIVED is a satisfying read for suspense lovers and for those who like
faith integrated into the character’s personalities and not preached from a mountaintop. Mix in missing diamonds, a
couple of murders, an abusive boyfriend, and an obnoxious parole agent and you’ll see there’s nothing deceptive
about James Scott Bell’s ability to write a page-turning thriller… and the twist at the end is like an unexpected
gourmet dessert after a fine meal. Grab a copy and dig in.
THE DESIRES OF HER HEART Texas Star of Destiny By Lyn Cote ISBN
978-0-06-137341-1 Avon Inspire Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Dorritt Mott wants to be free. Free of the restrictions regarding a woman
of influence in New Orleans, free from the demanding hand of her stepfather, and free from the expectations that she marry
a man she doesn’t love. When circumstances force her and her family to leave New Orleans and head to Texas to claim
land, Dorritt despairs of ever winning her heart’s desire. Why must a woman’s fate always rest on a man’s
shoulders? When will God give Dorritt the desire of her heart?
Then she meets Quinn, a handsome, half-Cherokee who knows the wilds of
Texas like the back of his hand. To complicate matters further, another man declares his love for Dorritt. When she is kidnapped,
both men band together to save her. Who’s love will she accept?
THE DESIRES OF HER HEART is a splendid historical romance full of rich
detail, and a gritty heroine. Lynn Cote shows us that sometimes our desires are not the Lord’s. A great read. High on
the faith scale.
THE SOMEDAY LIST Jubilant Soul #1 By Stacy Hawkins Adams ISBN
978-0-8007-3266-0 Revell Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Engaging from start to finish.
Rachelle
and Gabe, both doctors, have two daughters who are being sent to grandparents in Philadelphia, while he prepares to go to
a conference in New York, and she plans to visit a drying college friend in California . But even before they return to their
palatial home from seeing their daughters off at the Houston Airport, we know that something is very wrong in their marriage.
Although
Rachelle appears to be living the all-American dream, with all its trappings, inside she is dying for love. And a purpose.
And direction.
It did take me a while to realize that the man Rachelle eloped with in the prologue, is not the
man she is now married to---and can't wait to get away from, but I was drawn into the drama nevertheless. Skillfully revealed
in gradual increments, the story unfolds to a dramatic conclusion, and is well worth the trip. High spiritual content.
A LEVER LONG ENOUGH Amy Deardon ISBN: 978-0-9808997-2-5 Taegals
Publishing Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
This action packed sci-fi thriller never lets up. An amazing debut
for Deardon.
In order to thwart the enlarging growth of Christians threatening Israel's
existence, Benjamin Feinan is heading an Israeli team of four who will travel in the time machine back to Christ's crucifixion
and video the stealing of his body from the tomb.
When a bomb planted by a mole trying to stop FlashBack fails to stop
the mission, a dropped detonator fuse in the pod succeeds in altering the exact time when they arrive. After that, everything
that can go wrong does go wrong, and they have to leave one of the crew behind.
The action is so intense at times I had to take a breather before I could
continue. A good case substantiating the resurrection of Jesus is made by the author, a former skeptic. You'll love the surprise
ending.
MICHAL The Wives of King David #1 By Jill Eileen Smith ISBN
978-0-8007-3320-9 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Michal fell in love with the shepherd lad who killed the giant, saved
her country and was able to soothe her father, King Saul, when madness descended. She loved the idea of being queen when David
took the throne. What she couldn't do was force David to conform to her expectations or keep her life from falling apart.
Will she ever recognize the problem of her own heart?
A book that takes the story of Michal and David and brings it to life.
The writing draws us into to this age-old story as it draws us into examining our own walk with God. The narrative stays fairly
close to the Biblical account, though the ending takes some poetic license to wrap up the story.
Biblical fiction is not my first or second choice of reading material,
but I found this book captured and held my attention. A good start for a new series.
Faith element: medium
AGAINST ALL ODDS Heroes of Quantico By Irene Hannon ISBN 978-0-8007-3310-0 Revell
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
He was one of the best of the best of agents and He didn't like babysitting
jobs. But when terrorists threaten the daughter of a high-profile diplomat, he has no choice. What he didn't figure on was
how dangerously the assignments would be not only for Monica, but also for his heart.
But can he and his team protect her from an enemy they can't even find
and will Monica's faith prove the best protection of all?
Mystery-suspense that makes you hang on for the ride. This book has well
developed characters and a nice balance of plot and character, mystery and romance.
Faith is an understated but vital element that centers the book.
This is a winner. For me that usually means I'll just have to read it
again. I want to see more from this author.
AGE BEFORE BEAUTY Sister-to-Sister #2 By Virginia Smith ISBN
978-0-8007-3233-2 Revell Reviewer Cassie Scheidies
The second in the series of three sister-to-sister books
focuses on Allie Harrod. An independent career woman, Allie never thought that she would desire to be a stay at home mom.
When she decides to stay at home to raise their child, she still plans to contribute to the family income.
Unfortunately, this results in a makeup selling scheme that puts more
money on her credit card than in the bank. How is she ever going to tell her husband?
AGE BEFORE BEAUTY is an
amusing read that involves charming characters and antics. I read this book quickly and excitedly. In a world where things
aren't always the easiest, it's fun to read a book that does nothing but bring a smile to my face.
Faith element: very low
LOVE TO WATER MY SOUL By Jane Kirkpatrick ISBN 089-1-59052-949-2 Multnomah
Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Asiam’s earliest memory is of a wagon train disappearing in the
distance, her family inside, unaware that they left their young daughter behind. Picked up by Indians, Asiam must serve her
captors, scuttled from place to place, never belonging to anyone. She yearns for the day when she might find her “place
of belonging” and enjoy the affectionate care of a family, perhaps even the family she lost. But just when it seems
she might find acceptance, she suffers the most grievous loss of all.
In the midst of repeated heartbreak, the thirst Asiam has for steadfast
love only increases. She must embrace the God who can satisfy her deepest longings, or be consumed by her pain.
A well-crafted, engaging novel that will satisfy historical fans.
A PROMISE FOR SPRING By Kim Vogel Sawyer ISBN 978-0-7642-0507-1 Bethany
House Reviewer Kristine Pratt
Does absence truly make the heart grow fonder?
Five years have passed since Emmaline Bradford has seen her intended.
Now that it’s 1874 things have changed. Her love, Geoffrey Garrett has gone from 'English Gentleman' to 'Sheep Farmer
on the Kansas Prairie.' The problem is, she hasn’t heard from him once in all that time, so when she arrives to marry
him, she has no idea what to expect at all. Nor does the refined Englishwoman have any idea how to survive rough prairie life.
Geoffrey is confused as well. Didn’t forever mean anything to Emmaline?
Sadly, in five year's time, her love for him seems to have faded completely. But this is only the beginning. Since Emmaline’s arrival
at the ranch, one thing after another has gone wrong, from a plague of grasshoppers to fire which destroys the barn, to illness
and snakebite. Is it possible for one person person to be bad luck?
How can two people find their way back to each other under such circumstances?
While one turns to God…the other turns away. And come Spring, Emmaline intends to return to England – alone.
Time is running out and one of them is running away. Only God can turn this right again.
An exciting and fast paced read, A PROMISE FOR SPRING is a book I thoroughly
enjoyed and was genuinely sorry to see end. Highly recommended for all who love historicals!
Faith Element: Medium
OUTLAW MARSHALL Return of the Stranger, Book 1 Al & Joanna
Lacy ISBN 978-1-60142-054-1 Multnomah
Reviewer Kristine Pratt
It’s 1887 and Chief U.S. Marshall John Brockman is on the job.
As he pursues the outlaws throughout Colorado and Kansas, again and again his face as recognized. For not only is he the Marshall,
but he holds a mysterious past, that of The Stranger.
As he goes from one chase to the next we meet a career criminal, Whip
Langford. Caught after a bit of horse thieving, Whip is headed for prison. But John doesn’t want to lock him up so much
as offer him freedom – the only true freedom of being a redeemed child of Christ.
Will Whip accept salvation before the hangman’s noose cuts his
life short? Time is running out and John has a long trail to ride.
An exciting and fast paced read, you don’t need to know the Lacy’s
or the Stranger to know what’s going on in this story. If you have stumbled across any of their other 30 odd books,
you’ll know what you’re in for – a strong salvation message wrapped around all the action and grit that
the Old West has to offer. I look forward to seeing what happens next to John in future books.
Faith element: High
DAISY CHAIN Defiance Texas Trilogy By Mary E. DeMuth ISBN: 978-0-310-27836-8 Zondervan Reviewer
Holly Wolfe
It's 1977 and fourteen-year-old Jed's best friend Daisy goes missing. Convinced it's his fault she's
gone, guilt and failure haunt him on his quest to find her. Combined with his need to protect his mama and his little sister
from an angry father, Daisy's disappearance jolts Jed onto a new path in life.
He struggles to become a man of grace and empathy in a confusing world
where even the 'best' Christians aren't perfect. In the end, he realizes that he must make his own choices. Is he doomed to
accept the burden of guilt and anger, or can he choose the infinite hope of love and redemption?
Daisy Chain
is steeped in a faith that permeates every sentence and paragraph, yet there's no hint of preaching. Just a lot of ideas and
truths that will percolate through your soul for days to come. At its center is the deep, abiding love of Jesus, vividly portrayed
in the memorable characters of Hixon and Muriel. Like a thick quilt on a cool night, Mary DeMuth wraps you in this unforgettable
story of pure southern charm.
Her talent for weaving words mixes heartbreak and hope into such an intricate
pattern that you hardly realize where one ends and the other begins. Find a wide porch with an old swing and let this book
transport you to another time and place.
IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES By Marlo Schalesky ISBN 978-1-60142-024-4 Multnomah
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
All Kinna Henly wants is a baby. All her husband Jimmy ever wanted was
to be her hero. Since the days of their childhood, when he was her knight in shining armor and taught Kinna to be a princess,
he’s only wanted to make her happy. Give her a fairy tale life.
Kinna will do anything to achieve her goal while Jimmy hides in the shadows
of her obsession. When Kinna meets a strange woman named Thea in the very spot she played with Jimmy as a child, none of their
lives will ever be the same.
It takes a series of catastrophes before Kinna sits back and realizes
her dream may not be God’s will. Her treasure may already be right in front of her.
Marlo Schalesky has written a story of hope, dreams, love, and coming
back to the Father who waits with open arms. Once again, Marlo has crafted a story that will stay with the reader long after
the last page is turned. A strong faith message of waiting on God’s will.
A SWEETNESS TO THE SOUL By Jane Kirkpatrick ISBN 978-1-59052-950-8 Multnomah Reviewer
Sarah Sawyer
After a tragedy that impacts her entire family, young Jane Herbert bears
the weight of her misplaced guilt and her parents’ disapproval. She dreams of love and a future free from the pain that
plagues her, dreams that are mocked by her mother.
When her father arranges a marriage for her, she chooses instead to wed
an older man she barely knows. She finds in Joseph the unconditional love she craves, but will their love endure the harshness
of frontier life, the death of some dreams, and the price paid to see others come to pass?
The story of Jane and Joseph centers on dreams, the grief of dreams that
fail to come to pass in the desired way, and the sweet joy of dreams that are fulfilled through perseverance and God’s
grace.
A sweeping historical saga based on the lives of real people that captures
the feel of 19th century Oregon. Readers of historical fiction will find A SWEETNESS TO THE SOUL a compelling tale.
Faith element: medium
NO PLACE FOR A LADY Heart of the West #1 By Maggie Brendon ISBN
978-0-8007-3335-3 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Crystal Clark, spoiled, beautiful, southern belle must head to the high
country after her father’s death. She sells her belongings and moves to Colorado to live with her aunt. She immediately
becomes the focus of the ranch’s cowboys. Including the handsome foreman, Luke. The two clash horns every time they’re
in the same room together.
When tragedy strikes, Crystal must show she has a spine of steel as she
takes over running the ranch, even going so far as to ride along on a cattle drive. But things are not as they seem and Crystal
is in danger of being homeless once again.
NO PLACE FOR A LADY is an enjoyable read full of Colorado’s beauty,
romantic tension, and humor as the cowboys vie for Crystal’s attention. Mid-range on the faith scale, God’s message
still comes through. One of inner strength and love.
THE EDGE OF LIGHT At Home in Beldon Grove By Ann Shorey ISBN
978-0-8007-3330-8 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
The unthinkable happens and Molly McGarvie is left to begin a new life
with her children. She packs up the belongings dear to her and heads away from her home, only to face another tragedy. When
those around her believe Molly is losing her mind, she must convince them that she is capable of making a life for herself
and her children, while forgiving the man responsible for her heartache. While she struggles with forgiveness, she must admit
to a growing love for the same man who unwittingly wounded her.
THE EDGE OF LIGHT is an enjoyable historical romance of love, strength,
and forgiveness. Rich with detail and emotion, this story also injects humor in the form of young men with a crush on the
beautiful young widow. For historical romance fans, this book is a must. High on the faith scale without being preachy. Readers
will eagerly look forward to Ann Shorey’s next book.
GINGHAM MOUNTAIN By Mary Connealy ISBN 978-1-60260-141-3 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Grant understood what it was to be an unwanted orphan. He dedicated his
life to rescuing orphans no one else would take. He was the last chance for some orphans sent west on the Orphan Train.
But this time, when Grant took the belligerent Charlie and the little
girl Libby, who limped and refused to speak, he had no idea he'd be dealing with Hannah, who arrived on the same train and
looked little better than the orphans.
He had no idea the same Hannah, the new school teacher, had very bad
experiences as an orphan herself and feared for the safety of his orphans. The two mixed like oil and water until they had
to deal not only with the past, but also a present causing havoc and worse. Will truth set them free to love one another?
Another fun historical romance from Connealy with clueless but good-hearted
cowboys, and feisty, determined heroines. A read that leaves a smile.
Faith Element: low to medium
WHEN LOVE BLOOMS By Robin Lee Hatcher ISBN 978-0-310-25928-2 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Emily returned to her home in Idaho to nurse her sister. But once her
sister was able to once more take care of her family, Emily felt at loose ends, not wanting to return East but not sure what
she did want—until she read an ad for a governess.
Though Gavin let her know he thought she couldn't handle the job of governess
on a lonely, lowly ranch, his wife Dru won the day. Emily begins a journey of self-discovery that leads her into dangerous
waters of love and romance—and more complications than any virtuous woman should have to deal with. As both Emily and
Gavin discover, though people make mistakes in trying to shape the future, God is still at work bringing about His perfect
will—if we let Him.
I struggled with the plot somewhat, having in my head a movie with a
similar but much less virtuous outcome. Hatcher manages to stay within the confines of good taste and, in a complicated situation,
further highlights the positive characters and actions of both heroine and hero. The characters have depth, the plot intrigues
and Hatcher's writing, as usual, pulls the reader into the story and holds attention. An intriguing read.
Faith element: Low to Medium
SWEETWATER GAP By Denise Hunter ISBN 089-1-59554-259-5 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Josie Mitchell carries a weight of guilt so heavy it’s kept her
from going home. Until she needs to help with the family’s apple orchard in order to keep her pregnant sister from working
too hard. Though keeping a secret that could cost her life, Josie heads home determined to stay only during harvest.
Grady Mackenzie, foreman of the orchard resents Josie’s arrival,
thinking the girl is all city and a waste of time. Despite his initial feelings, he begins to fall for her, even after finding
out her horrible secret.
Can going home again save Josie’s life and give her a renewed purpose
of living?
Denise Hunter has done it again. SWEETWATER GAP is a story of self-forgiveness,
sacrifice, and love. A ten on the faith scale, I recommend this story to anyone who holds a secret, harbors guilt, or loves
a sibling.
DOUBLE MINDS By Teri Blackstock ISBN 978-0-310-25063-0 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
All Parker wanted to do was serve God and make it in the music business.
She already wrote hit songs for her friend, a rising star. She gains studio time by working as a receptionist for the studio.
But when a young intern is murdered at her desk, Parker and her family must untangle the multi-strand threads of deception,
secrets and cover-ups before any one else is killed—including Parker herself. Will her commitment to her faith hold
strong against those who want her to compromise her music; will it matter when the murderer turns in her direction and the
cops have it all wrong?
A look into the sometimes seamy side of the music business—even
Christian music where business often trumps the gospel message and not everyone lives their public persona. The mystery draws
the reader into a world of music, danger, ...and murder.
The mystery is nicely wrapped up. However, since this is a one shot book,
I would have liked more of an epilogue on the main characters. But that's me. The story ends as it begins, in worship. Not
a bad ending.
So... Grab a hot chocolate (tea/coffee), get warm, lock the doors...and
read.
CRY IN THE NIGHT Rock Harbor Series By Colleen Coble ISBN
978-1-5955-4248-9 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
She'd lost her first husband. She almost lost her son. Now with a new
marriage and her son restored to her, Bree longs for a baby. Her prayer isn't answered until she and her search dog Samson
find a baby in the snow. While she falls in love with the newborn, her life spins out of control when she searches for the
baby's mother. When murder enters the picture, her son is once more in danger and maybe even her marriage, Bree begins to
question even her sanity. For the sake of all she holds dear, Bree must find the truth. But will the truth destroy everyone
she loves?
The well-constructed plot the entangles all the characters, forcing them
to face the worst and the best in themselves and others. A mystery that tugs at the heartstrings of all we hold dear—faith,
family and love. This return to Rock Harbor is well worth the visit.
RED, WHITE, AND BLUE America the Beautiful Series #2 By Laura
Hayden ISBN 978-1-4143-18940-7 Tyndale House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Emily has won the White house and Kate is ready to step up as Chief of
Staff. But she does so with hesitation. Has she learned Emily's secrets or has what she's discovered only been the tip of
the problem? Add in Emily's ex and the whole mix gets dicey. Can Kate continue to be faithful to both her president and her
faith?
A story that is frightening in revealing the reaches of power, the extent
some with go to cover up wrong doing, and how choices may mean life or death politically, spiritually, and physically. A perfect
sequel to AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL.
Waiting for the next book.
PAPER ROSES Texas Dreams #1 By Amanda Cabot ISBN 978-0-8007-3330-8 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Sarah left behind her shattered life in the East hoping for a new start
as a mail order bride. Trouble is, when she arrives in San Antonio she discovers her proposed groom is dead—murdered
and his brother Clay has vowed to do whatever it takes to bring the murderer to justice.
Clay is sure Sarah will give up, take her little sister and go back East.
But he doesn't realize Sarah has no reason to return and every reason to stay. Will Sarah and Clay be able to move beyond
their hurt, pain and bitterness to rediscover their faith as well as the future God intended all along?
Solid characters, nicely packaged mystery, romance plot and a joy to
read. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Faith element: Medium
DANIEL’S DEN By Brandt Dodson ISBN 978-0-7369-2477-1 Harvest
House Publishers Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Daniel Borden left a troubled, poverty-stricken childhood determined
never to know lack again. Relying on his own strength and intelligence, he builds a successful life for himself as an accountant.
His job gives him the financial stability, security, and respect he craves, until he uncovers information about corruption
within the company’s biggest accounts. Uncertain where to turn, and afraid of losing his job, the information Daniel
learns puts not only his job, but also his life, in jeopardy.
Daniel must leave the comforts of home and the security of his job to
flee into an unknown future, fighting for his life. His faith in his own abilities fails as he is confronted by a powerful
network of evil that will stop at nothing to bring him down. Will he find faith in a greater strength?
A fast-moving thriller with plenty of twists and turns—will satisfy
suspense readers.
Faith element: Medium
WANTED Sisters of the Heart #2 By Shelley Shepard Gray ISBN
978-0-06-147446-0 Avon Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Amish Kate wanted nothing more than a husband and family. What she didn't
want to do was revisit the mistakes she'd made during her Rumspringa, running-around years. When she is asked to watch Jonathan's
two daughters, she hopes Jonathan will see her as more than a girl or a nanny for the children. But when her past comes back
to haunt her, Kate must make decisions regarding her past, her future, her faith and where she truly belongs.
A well-told story, with sympathetic characters that draw in the reader.
The writing is smooth in a style reminiscent to that of Tracie Peterson., keeping the reader turning the pages. Well worth
time spent reading. Warning. Could get hooked on this series.
Faith element: medium
THIS SIDE OF HEAVEN By Karen Kingsbury ISBN 978-1-59995-678-7 Center
Street Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Josh lived a quiet life of regret--bad choices, parents who he'd disappointed,
a girl who'd moved on when he refused to clean up his act. But life was looking up. He'd returned to Christ and had hope,
and the lawsuit settlement would allow him to get the surgery needed to alleviate the pain that racked his body since the
accident. He would not only be able to repay his parents, but start his own business and, finally, search for his daughter.
Only what Josh doesn't know is that his time is limited and the quiet,
generous life he lived would be a wake-up call for his parents. As they come to really know their son, will they peruse his
dream and find his daughter?
Another tear-jerker from Karen Kingsbury. But, while there is a connecting
of the dots at the end, this story isn't quite her signature happy ending. In fact, my daughter had a very negative reaction
to the book and felt betrayed by the death mid-book of Josh, who appeared to be the main hero character. This ending is bittersweet.
Because of Cassie, I knew of the death going in and read the book in
that light I think it made a world of difference. While I try not to give away major novel plot points, in this case I'd suggest
reading Karen's background notes first. They provide a whole different context to the story and, may keep other readers from
a sense of betrayal, from the satisfaction of a story wrapped up in a happy ending.
A story that tears the heartstrings even as it re-enforces the realization
that life and faith don't always provide the Cinderella endings we'd always like. Sometimes, we must accept a different ending,
allowing that path to draw us back to the Lord in new and deeper ways.
STEPPING INTO SUNLIGHT By Sharon Hink ISBN 978-0-7642-0283-4 Bethany
House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Penny Sullivan witnesses a brutal murder while running an ordinary errand.
Her world will never be the same. Her husband, a new Navy Chaplain is deployed, leaving her alone with her demons and nightmares.
Guilt over surviving the attack threatens to overwhelm her. How can she break free and be the wife and mother she used to?
Penny concocts what she believes to be a marvelous plan. To randomly
choose one person each day to do something kind for. But how can you help someone when stepping out your door sends you into
a full-blown panic attack? And why won’t her opinionated neighbor leave her alone?
Sharon Hinck has crafted a beautiful story of healing and hidden strength.
Of a woman’s struggles with where God is when the pain of life threatens to be too much. A nine on the faith scale,
STEPPING INTO SUNLIGHT is a must read for anyone who has ever experienced fear of the known or the unknown. A deeply emotional
story of triumph.
MIDNIGHT IN MADRID The Russian Trilogy #2 By Noel Hynd ISBN
978-0-310-27871-9 Zondervan Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Alex LaDuca cuts her relaxing vacation short in order to head to Madrid
and find a missing religious artifact, the PIETA OF MALTA, which is claimed to hold miraculous powers. All part of the job
as an FBI agent. Soon, things escalate as Alex is ambushed and her partner hospitalized. A handsome, Asian, agent comes to
her rescue. But can he be trusted, or is he the wanted agent from China? Thrust in the midst of terrorism and stolen artifacts,
Alex isn’t sure who to trust, or in what direction to search for the PIETA OF MALTA, and the death count is rising.
Will she be next?
Noel Hynd has brought readers a page-turning espionage thriller. Although
low on the faith scale, MIDNIGHT IN MADRID does show an FBI agent’s belief in God’s power during a time of terrorism
and fear.
COZY IN KANSAS Three Romance Mysteries By Nancy Mehl ISBN 978-1-60260-228-1 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Her Great Aunt Bitty is dead and Ivy returns to Winter Break to handle
the details. When the details include discovering her much loved aunt might have been murdered, nothing will stop Ivy from
uncovering the truth. Will that mean rethinking what plans God has for her future? Or, will her nosing around put any future
in jeopardy?
The first mystery in this 3 book collection introduces Ivy, her childhood
friend who-would-be-more, Amos, and a lovable cast of characters that make the reader almost want to visit Winter Break, snow,
murder, danger and all.
Each mystery takes us on a journey of life, love and faith—not
to mention, murder, mayhem and danger. A perfect book for those cold Winter's nights when all we want to do is drink something
hot and curl up with a good book.
For cozy mystery and MURDER SHE WROTE fans. This author has a new fan--me.
AS THE EAGLE FLIES THE KING Book 1: REDEMPTION COMING By Wendy
M McNeice ISBN 978-1-60604-339-4 Tate Publishing Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
In ancient Babylon, the fate of the Jews rests in the hands of a pagan
king and Chaim, an impetuous Jewish girl, finds herself forced into betrothal to Belshazzar, a prince of Babylon. She wants
nothing more to escape the palace and her fate. When her father is imprisoned, her determination to flee solidifies. She seizes
the first opportunity that comes, and embarks on a perilous journey to Jerusalem at her father’s request.
Along the way she meets Mohganees, a Persian who seems be following her
along the way. Danger lurks on all sides from warring armies and political forces, fierce bands of nomads, and quite possibly
from Mohganees. Chaim must mature enough to hear and heed God’s leadership, and discern the motives of those around
her, if she is to survive.
Readers of Biblical fiction may enjoy this tale of intrigue and romance.
Faith element: medium
HOMETOWN FAVORITE By Bill Barton and Henry O. Arnold ISBN 978-0-8007-1914-2 Revell Reviewer
Cynthia Hickey
Dewayne Jobe has it all. A winning personality, he’s a gifted and
wonderful athlete, supported by a loving mother, and has the support of friends. When he receives a contract to play football,
he surprises everyone with his decision and turns the industry on its ear with an innovative way to make more money. He meets
the perfect woman, builds a family, and works in a sport he loves. Can life get any better?
Then tragedy strikes and everything Dewayne thought he had could be lost.
Can God save him in time?
Bill Barton and Henry O. Arnold have written a more than a sports story.
They have crafted a novel of spiritual truth and leaning on God for support when the day seems the darkest.
I enjoyed HOMETOWN FAVORITE so much, I recommended my husband also read
it. He couldn’t put the book down. Full of faith, the story will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned.
A ten on the faith scale.
WHERE THE HEART LEADS By Kim Sawyer ISBN 978-0-7642-0263-6 Bethany
House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
College graduate Thomas Ollenburger is torn between doing what his father
desires and finding God’s will for his own life. To complicate matters, there’s the beautiful Daphne Severt and
the charming Mennonite, Belinda Schmidt. One would keep him rooted in his faith and Mennonite ways. The other poses an obstacle.
Then, there’s the matter of the presidential election. Thomas has promised to help on the campaign for Watson.
When he finds out that the man he’s campaigning for believes in
the separation of the races, and that, Daphne, agrees, Thomas must make the toughest decision of his life. Go with the teachings
of his father and God, or follow his heart regardless of the circumstances.
Kim Vogel Sawyer has done it again in WHERE THE HEART LEADS. She’s
crafted a story as relevant to today’s events as they were to history. A delightful romance full of twists and turns
that will leave the reader thinking when it’s over. A nine on the faith scale.
RAIN SONG By Alice J. Wisler ISBN 978-0-7642-0477-7 Bethany
House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
The last thing Nicole Michelin wants is to get on an airplane, a motorcycle,
or go to Japan. She is content to stay home, surrounded by family and her fish, and to focus on her teaching job. Japan took
her mother’s life. All Nicole wants as a reminder is her Japanese doll. But when she begins emailing back and forth
with Harrison Michaels, who lives in Japan, life takes an interesting turn.
Through their correspondence, Nicole begins to get answers to the questions
regarding her short life in Japan, and develops a strong affection for Harrison. Then he asks the unthinkable. Will she come
for a visit and find her answers first hand? Nicole’s decision will change her life.
Alice J. Wisler’s debut novel is an enjoyable, entertaining read
about strength, family, and relying on God to do what seems impossible. RAIN SONG takes the reader along with Nicole on a
journey of self-discover and overcoming life’s fears. An 8 on the faith scale.
WAITING FOR DAYBREAK By Kathryn Cushman ISBN 978-0-7642-0381-7 Bethany
House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Two women with variations of the same dream. Paige Woodward wants to
help pay her mother’s medical bills by being a pharmacist, despite the horrific tragedy in her past. Clarissa Richarson
wants to own her own pharmacy franchise, and will do so at any cost. Even if it destroys another woman’s life.
WAITING FOR DAYBREAK is a story of two women wanting the same, yet different,
and the conflicts that arise as they seek their goal. One has a heart of gold; the other a heart of stone, full of jealousy
and self-ambition. Can they work together to achieve what is best?
Kathryn Cushman has crafted a novel of forgiveness, seeking, and above
all, relying on God’s promises. As you read, you cheer for one woman’s victories, no matter how small, and pray
for another’s eyes to be opened. Hanging over all, is the promise of love and new beginning. A ten on the faith scale
and an all around great read.
FIREFLIES IN DECEMBER By Jennifer Erin Valent ISBN 978-4143-2432-6 Tyndale
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Thirteen-year-old Jessilyn had a loving family, good friends and lived
in a small town where everyone knew and pretty cared about one another—at least so it seemed. When fire takes the lives
of the parents of her friend Gemma and her family takes in the young girl, Jessilyn and her family discover just how many
wrong assumptions they've made about faith, friends, family and a whole belief system of what is right for “coloreds
and whites”.
Told against a 1930's Southern prejudice, FIREFLIES IN DECEMBER is a
potent story about a young girl growing up, seeing the evil side of life and having to make choices of faith, love and hate.
In one way or another we are all touched by our own prejudice or that directed against us as the wrong religion, the wrong
race, the wrong status. This should be a must read for families and in schools.
ENGAGING FATHER CHRISTMAS By Robin Jones Gunn ISBN 978-0-446-17946-9 FaithWords Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Miranda found not only her family in Britain, but also the love of her
life the last Christmas. This Christmas promises to be more than she ever imagined, until her true connection with an important
British family hits the tabloids. Will her dreams crumble under the onslaught or will she truly find the peace and grace she
seeks?
A sweet, sentimental and altogether charming Christmas story. A nice
sequel to last Christmas' offering FINDING FATHER CHRISTMAS.
UNTIL WE REACH HOME By Lynn Austin ISBN 0-7642-0495-1 Bethany
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Elin saw her Uncle Sven alone with her sister Sofia, she knew she
must get her sisters away from the her Uncle's influence. When she appeals to her Uncle Lars in Chicago for help and he sends
passage fare from Sweden, Elin believes her prayers have been answered. Only the trip with a reluctant Sofia and Kirsten was
not what any of them expected, including their reception on arrival.
Can three girls make a new life in America or will choices they've already
made derail any hope of family and home? Will their faith blossom or whither under the pressure?
I received this book as a Christmas gift because of my own Swedish heritage.
Yet, it was the story itself that drew me in. The characters are well drawn, the story compelling as it details what the lives
of those entering America, even without speaking the language, went through many years ago. This is a story of God's faithfulness
even when we take things into our own hands.
It was a relief to have the complete story in this one volume. I didn't
need to buy three more books to get one story. (Not that there aren't threads that can be further developed.) A story of family,
faith...and love. A good read.
UNTIL WE REACH HOME By Lynn Austin ISBN 978-0-7642-0495-1 Bethany
House Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Not only has Elin Carlson suffered through the loss of her parents, but
she’s also endured cruel betrayal at the hands of the uncle who was intended to take care of her and her sisters. Desperate
to keep her sisters from the hands of her dangerous uncle, Elin is determined to make a new beginning in a safe land—America.
What she doesn’t know is that her sisters already bear their own
hidden wounds, and that America is not the safe haven she dreams of. The struggle to make a home in a new land and the battle
to hold onto faith despite circumstances threatens to divide the sisters forever. Will they find the home they long for?
An intense journey from 19th century Sweden to America that will keep
historical readers riveted.
Faith level: Medium-high
O LITTLE TOWN By Don Reid ISBN 978-1-4347-9930-2 David
C. Cook Publisher Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
The storyteller opens with the scene as he sees it, down Main
Street where Macalbee's Five and Dime used to be, across the way where the old Police Station once was, and up on top of the
hill where you can still see the steeple of the Mason Street Methodist Church.
From the book blurb: "The story
begins at Christmas time back in 1958; Elvis was on the radio, Ike was in the White House, and the Lord was in his Holy Temple--but
there is no peace in Mr. Jefferson."
In two paragraphs, the storyteller has whisked me into the center of a winter
storm of the people kind. The preacher's daughter is caught shoplifting, the police detective's daughter is pregnant, and
on it goes until I am caught in the center until the blizzard subsides, all is forgiven, and I sigh with satisfaction. You
will love this story of small town, U.S.A., written by singer Don Reid of the Statler Brothers. High spiritual content. Highly
recommended.
ONE PERFECT GIFT A Culdee Creek Christmas By Kathleen Morgan ISBN
978-0-8007-1883-1 Revell Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jesse has left everything behind in the East to take a job as nurse for
a doctor in Colorado. When that job falls through she finds herself serving as in-home nurse for a stroke patient. Though
most of the family welcomes her and her daughter with warmth, the couple's son does not. What lies behind his anger at her
presence and will Jesse not only be able to discover the hurts in Sean's past but also be able to forgive hurts in her own?
A story of faith, trust and forgiveness.
This is one of those short novels written for the Christmas season that
just make you smile and leaves you with lots of warm, fuzzies.
Faith element: high
BON APPĖTIT By Sandra Byrd ISBN 978-1-4000-7328-3 Waterbrook
Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Lexi Stuart not only has a goal of being a fabulous pastry chef; she
wants to work in France. Leaving behind her family, friends, and maybe boyfriend, she enrolls in a French chef college and
works in a French family-owned bakery. Loneliness sets in as she tries to fit in with the people of France and prove herself,
an American, in the pastry world.
Her first friend is a little girl, her second, the girl’s father,
and Lexi’s goals become muddled. She’s proving herself as a baker, but feels life getting more difficult when
she’s unsure whether God intends for her to stay in France or go home to America, and finds herself leaning toward God
to find her answer.
A delightful, easy-to-read story of a young woman’s striving toward
her dream. With an extra bonus of French baking recipes, Sandra Byrd has written the perfect story to curl up in your favorite
chair, grab a drink, and while away the afternoon.
Medium on the faith level.
TWICE LOVED #1 Belles of Timber Creek By Lori Copeland ISBN
978-0-06-136491-4 Avon Inspire Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Willow Madison only wants to take care of her uncle and family. To do
so, she must move to Thunder Ridge, Texas, teach school, and win the heart of a rich man. Nothing goes as planned. Not only
does she arrive in town with a wagon full of kerosene, she burns down the town’s lumber mill and clashes instantly with
the mill’s owner, the handsome, but bull-headed, Tucker Gray. Despite their instant antagonism toward each other, Tucker
tries to talk Willow out of her plans to marry and says she has to pay him back the cost of rebuilding the mill.
To top things off, the rich man her uncle hopes she’ll marry is
old enough to be her grandfather, and the school house she’s expected to teach in is a chicken coop! When her uncle
falls ill, she’s even more determined to follow through with her plan to care for her family and friends. Add the daily
clashing thunder with no rain and you have a rollicking fun story with a feisty heroine who has to learn that even the best
laid plans often go awry.
Lori Copeland has written an engaging historical with wonderful characters,
rich detail, and a story that will have you laughing long after you close the book. Full of faith, love and humor, TWICE LOVED
is a keeper.
DARK PURSUIT By Brandilyn Collins ISBN 978-0-310-27642-5 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Kaitlan has cleaned up her act, is in love and excited about the future.
That is, until she discovers a body in her house, on her bed. The murderer left the one piece of incriminating evidence that
shatters her world and sends Kaitlan running to her hot-shot suspense author grandfather for help. Only he's not the man who
once threw his druggie granddaughter out.
Since his accident he can scarcely hold two consecutive thoughts in his
head. But with his granddaughter's life on the line, can grandfather and granddaughter work together to bring a criminal to
justice and, just maybe, save their lives in the process?
This is a different book for Collins, or maybe not so different after
all. She unravels the plot until you know the ending...or do you?
Another thrillingly, creepy page-turner from the queen of suspense.
WHITE CHRISTMAS PIE Wanda E. Brunstetter ISBN: 978-58789-937-6 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
Will Henderson stares at the headlines: Three-year-old girl abandoned
in small town park. It brings back memories of his own abandonment. True, he wasn't left in a park but in the safe home of
his dead mother's friends, but the sting of it still hurt even though he was now grown and about to marry a sweet Amish girl.
Unable to break through the barrier Will has erected around his heart,
Karen Yoder seeks advice from an old boyfriend which only serves to widen the gap between the couple. Their December wedding
may never take place.
Riddled with guilt over the loss of his son, Frank Henderson sinks into
depression. Although he had tried to locate him, his attempts had been unsuccessful, when a surprising ally comes to his aid.
And a white Christmas pie holds the final piece of the puzzle. A pleasant Christmas romance, with just the right amount of
inspiration.
A PASSION REDEEMED Daughters of Boston #2 By Julie Lessman ISBN
978-0-8007-3212-7 Revell Publishing Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Beautiful, spoiled, Charity O’Connor uses any means to get what
she wants. She has no time for God. What had He done for her anyway? She’s got her heart set on staying in Ireland and
winning the heart of the man she loves. By any means possible. Even if it means selling her soul to a man set on breaking
her.
As she sets out to claim her love, she lays a treacherous path of deceit,
seduction, and feminine wiles. When life deals a heavy blow and her world crashes around her feet, will Charity finally turn
to God?
Julie Lessman has crafted another passionate love story in the continuing
saga of one of the O’Connor sisters. A PASSION REDEEMED is every bit as good as Lessman’s debut novel, A PASSION
MOST PURE and will have the reader turning the pages fast enough to create a breeze! When the last page is read, the reader
will sigh that the pleasure has past and eagerly look forward to book #3. A well-written story of love, redemption, mercy,
and romance.
Faith element: high
THE SHAPE OF MERCY By Susan Meissner ISBN 978-1-4000-7456-3 Waterbrook
Press Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Though prejudice may take various forms in different generations, the
choices people must make when they are confronted with it are the same. Do you blindly adopt the prejudice of those around
you? Remain silent in the face of injustice? Or stand against it in whatever way you can? Sometimes the right response isn’t as clear as we imagine.
From two women—Abigail and Mercy—who have battled these very
issues, Lauren is about to learn more than she bargained for about how dangerous her preconceived ideas can be, and the importance
of the choice for love and mercy.
Richly drawn, identifiable characters struggling with tough issues will
pull you into this thought provoking, engrossing read.
Faith element: High
WHERE DO I GO? A Yada Yada House of Hope Novel By Neta Jackson ISBN
978-1-59554-523-7 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Gabby Fairbanks has always endeavored to be the model wife—supportive
of her husband’s business ventures, perfect hostess, and always the picture of poise—but in the process has lost
the carefree joy of her early years. She longs to recapture the passion she once knew, but as she pursues her dreams, the
distance between she and her husband grows.
When the relationship reaches the breaking point and she’s on the
verge of losing everything, she realizes she needs more strength than she has on her own, and seeks the true shelter that
can only be found in God.
Fans of the earlier YADA YADA PRAYER GROUP series will enjoy this story
and be delighted to see the characters of earlier books make a reappearance and help Gabby on her journey.
Faith element: Medium
HOME ANOTHER WAY By Christa Parrish ISBN 978-0-7642-0523-1 Bethany
House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Life isn’t easy for Sarah Graham who carries a lot of baggage.
When her estranged father dies, Sarah heads to Jonah, New York hoping to walk away with enough money to set her back on her
feet. But, things don’t work out the way she’d planned. Jonah is full of people who loved her father and love
God, neither of which Sarah has time for. Life in Jonah turns everything she’d believed upside down--including her heart.
Jack Watson, the handsome pastor of Jonah, holds secrets of his own.
Secrets Sarah is all too happy to bring into the open. But the reaction of the people living in Jonah to Jake’s opening
up, shocks Sarah. What she’d meant for evil, God meant for good.
Christa Parrish’s debut novel, HOME ANOTHER WAY, is a wonderful
prodigal son story full of love and redemption. God can melt even the hardest of hearts, and heal the deepest wounds. HOME
ANOTHER WAY scores a 8 on the faith scale. The characters will linger long after the book is closed.
VERMONT WEDDINGS Three Romances in Small Town Goosebury By Pamela
Griffin ISBN 978-1-60260-113-0 Barbour Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Leslie wanted the job of reporter, not to take over the position of Dear
Granny. But what Leslie doesn't know is that God has a plan to draw Leslie to her true calling. Will she recognize one of
her writers is the man of her dreams?
Carly has been hurt by life and made bad choices as a result. This time
she chooses to get away to think by agreeing on a long hiking adventure with Christian friends. What she doesn't want is anything
to do with is either God or the gorgeous hunk assigned as her trail mate. But God has other plans as His creation and his
caring people begin to soften her heart.
Sharon has no intention of getting married again after her abusive husband
dies in prison. But when Jared declares “She's the one,” Sharon has to decide if this kind, caring man is a nut
case or the real deal. Can she let go and let God heal the pain in her heart?
Three sweet, interconnected romances that draw the reader to romance
and the lover of our soul—Jesus. A pleasure to read.
Faith element: High.
A CONSTANT HEART By Siri Mitchell ISBN 978-0-7642-0431-9 Bethany
House Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
In Queen Elizabeth’s court, immorality and intrigue run rampant,
and angering the Queen is a crime punishable by death or imprisonment. In this environment, Lytham strives to gain the Queen’s
favor, for only she can give him back his ancestral home and the place in society he so desires. Suddenly thrust into this
world by her marriage to Lytham, Marget finds herself shunned by the court and viewed with disfavor by the Queen for her beauty
and her morals. To what lengths will she go to find a place in the court and please her new husband?
A CONSTANT HEART will pull you into the opulent chambers of the palace
and the lives of Marget and Lytham. An enthralling tale of enduring love and tested faith.
Faith element: Medium
BELOVED CAPTIVE Fairweather Key #2 By Kathleen Y'Barbo ISBN
978-1-60260-230-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Emilie returns home to care for her ailing father, she discovers
something about her background that changes her perception of the past, her place in the world and her perception of herself
and family. Burdened with her knowledge, Emilie seeks to return to her new home and her job as a teacher only to be waylaid
by pirates and not just once. Her rescue leads her on a journey of discovery of herself, faith and love—but can she
take the chance?
Filled with a balance of characters and plot, this story draws us to
the truth of who we are in Christ. Though the second in a series, the reader can read this book as a stand alone. (Chances
are good the reader will want to pick up the first of the series and wait for the third.)
A swashbuckling romance.
DANGEROUS HEART Westward Hearts #3 By Tracey Bateman ISBN 978-0-06-126635-7 Avon
Inspire Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Ginger didn't want to have feelings for the doctor man she blamed for
the death of her brother. Never mind, she'd been part of an outlaw gang and never mind that since joining the wagon train
to harm him, she found herself changing, accepting the loving care of those around her. But when her innocent younger brother
and outlaw father re-enter her already topsy world, Ginger must make life altering decisions that will change not only her
life but also the lives of those around her. Will she return to her father's domination or will faith lead her to forgiveness...and
love?
A satisfying ending to a good historical, romance series. I enjoyed every
book and this one is no exception. The characters draw the reader into a book with enough plot to keep the story moving and
enough depth to leave the reader wishing for more. Though the stories tie together, it is not critical to read the whole series
in order to enjoy each individual book. This is the best sort of series, the sort that makes you want to read the whole story
over again from the first book.
Faith element: high
THE OUTSIDER By Ann H Gabhart ISBN 978-0-8007-3239-4 Revell
Reviewer Melanie Jones
Ann H. Gabhart provides a fascinating glimpse into life in a Shaker village
in THE OUTSIDER. Don't mistake the white bonnet on the cover for an Amish prayer kapp, and this isn't like a gentle Amish
novel. The violence of the War of 1812 dominates portions of the story.
Shakers had not only a different way of life, but also a different belief
system. They believed their founder, Mother Ann Lee, was the female incarnation of Christ and prayed to and worshiped her,
in addition to God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Men, women and children were separated into different dormitories. One
character is scandalized by the thought of "committing matrimony."
Gabrielle Hope came to a Shaker village in Kentucky as a child with her
mother. There had never been a strong spiritual influence on her life before the move, so she grows up believing the Shaker
way to be right and true. She also has visions, which the Shakers believe are a gift from God.
But when a fire injures one of their members, village leaders accept
assistance from a doctor, an outsider. And the handsome doctor, Brice Scott, speaks to Gabrielle about life outside the confines
of the village, planting seeds of doubt. When the War of 1812 takes
Dr. Scott away from Kentucky (and into some upsetting subplots), events in the village feed the doubts.
But pull of the Shaker faith and the fear that Dr. Scott will not return
from war are strong. Will her growing questions be enough to free her from the constraints of Village life?
THE LEAST OF THESE MY BROTHERS By Harold Bell Wright, Michael R. Phillips,
Editor ISBN:1-55661-056-4 Bethany House Publishers Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
In the early 1900s, a young boy listens to his mother's dying prayer:
"God, take care o' Dickie. . . . fer Jesus' sake . . . Amen." With his mother gone, and his drunken father asleep, Dickie
Faulner gathers his few belongings and slips away into the darkness, fearing for his life.
Years have passed. The young man crawls from beneath a stack of straw
at the edge of Boyd City's stock yard. It is early March. He watches the smoke from a nearby block of smelters disappear into
the chilling mist. Cold and hungry, he wipes himself off and wonders how much food he could get with only fifteen cents. An
old hobo startles him, and convinces him they should look for food together. It takes ten of his last pennies, but he fails
to find someone who will hire him. He's willing to do anything, even sweep floors, although he is a printer by trade.
The hobo begs him to buy him a drink. When he refuses, the hobo tells
him he recognizes him. He was his father's drinking buddy, but informs him that his father is dead. With a sigh of relief,
Dick hands the man his last nickel and continues his search for work. This act of kindness leads to one blessing after another
until he finds himself not only in a full time printing job, but face to face with the Savior who had been pursuing him. And
in the end, this one act of kindness saves his life.
A first-hand look at the industrial revolution and depression of that
time, and an inside look at the workings of the church. High faith content. Well worth reading.
FARRADAY ROAD By Ace Collins ISBN 978-0-310-27952-5 Zondervan Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
On dark night, a husband and wife are forced off the road and shot for
apparently no reason. The problem? The husband survives and begins to unravel a series of mysteries that not only have not
ended with the death of his beloved wife, but actually open the door to his determination to discover the truth.
The characters are well drawn with realism and depth. The plot pulls
the reader into a world of intrigue that spans centuries. But, for those who like endings, this doesn't offer one. This is
just the opening salvo in a new mystery series with a mystery so deep it will take several books to reach the full extent
of this plot.
Those who don't mind continuing a plot through a series of books (as
opposed to a series with a complete plot in each book but continuing threads), you'll love this new mystery series.
Faith element: Very low
DREAM OR DESTINY By Lillie Ammann ISBN 978-1-933869-03-02 GASLight
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Marilee knew far too many details of the crime. The cops weren't buying
her story of simply a nightmare the night of the murder. The murdered victim's brother David had a failing business and his
sister turned down his request for a loan. The cops didn't buy his story of innocence either.
Thrown together by murder and suspicion, Marilee and David team up to
find what the cops weren't—the killer. But will their efforts destroy not only their budding relationship, but also
their lives?
A mystery with all the elements: murder, eccentric characters (really
Tess should have her own story), lots of red herrings and romance. The psychic aspect might disturb some, and, while
the murder was solved, I would have liked an epilogue to wrap up all the little threads, but that's my preference. Amman did
solve the murder and pull the main threads together to give the romantic at heart the best of all endings—love.
Faith element: Very low
THE JEWEL OF GRESHAM GREEN By Lawana Blackwell ISBN 978-0-7642-0511-8 Bethany
House Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Set in 1884, Birmingham, England, I am quickly transported to the seamier
side of the city where the young widow Jewel Libby works at a corset factory to support her daughter and afford the rent at
a tenement house. After a long day at the sewing machine, she arrives home just in time to rescue her daughter from the hand
of the lustful landlord who favors little girls. Her neighbor, Mrs. Platt, is nowhere in sight, and Becky has been told not
to be outside without her.
Abruptly I found myself in Gresham, England, immersed in the busy household
of the vicar. If I had read the preceding book, The Widow of Larkspur Inn, I would have known about the blended family in
the vicarage, but at this point I hadn't, so the change is disconcerting. It took me a while to make sense of all the new
(to me) characters.
In the meanwhile, Jewel and Becky Libby are rescued from the threatening
landlord, and sent to Gresham with a note of introduction from the vicar of Birmingham, and I am pleasantly drawn in to the
enfolding intricacies of the small dairy village and its cast of characters. And Jewel blossoms in her new environment. An
enjoyable trip back in time. Faith element medium.
DIAMOND DUO Texas Fortunes #1 By Marcia Gruver ISBN 978-1-60260-205-2 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
Jefferson, Texas, 1877
Bertha Biddie and her friend Magda
have no idea who the beautiful young woman is that just stepped off the train, but they are not the only ones stunned by her
arresting presence. Every man in the depot is too Google-eyed to think, and every woman jealous.
Bertha has two
reasons to seek the stranger out. One, she just must find out the girl's secret to attracting men---Thad Bloom in particular;
and two, she just has to tell her a message from God. Why the urgency, she cannot fathom, but then, that has never stifled
her impulsiveness, much to her parents' (and Thad's) chagrin.
Henry is a freed man with a slave mentality. Sarah,
however, has been raised as an equal, and schooled by a lady as a lady. When Sarah discovers a body in the woods, their stories
intertwine with what's happening in the southern town with its slowly changing ways, .
Fast paced, and exciting.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Faith level, medium.
ONE PERFECT DAY By Lauraine Snelling ISBN 978-0-446-58210-0 FaithWords Reviewer
Sarah Sawyer
What if another had to die so that you could live? ONE PERFECT DAY explores
this theme and its ramifications in the lives of two mothers. Nora has a healthy son, Charlie, full of life and dreams for
the future. Jenna has a frail daughter, Heather, who is barely hanging onto life as her heart fails. Heather has been on a
heart transplant list for years, but only when Charlie dies in a car accident does she find a match for the heart she needs.
One mother grieves and struggles to find hope; another rejoices, yet
recognizes the loss that has given life to her daughter. As they walk through this experience, they must grow and adapt or
else be swept away by the changes flooding their lives.
A poignant tale of grief, loss, and hope that readers of women’s
fiction will enjoy.
Faith element: Medium
THE BONE BOX By Bob Hostetler ISBN 978-1-4165-6647-2 Howard
Books Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
His occupation as an archaeologist has always consumed Randall Bullock's
life, but even more so after the death of his wife and his failure to reconnect with his daughter. Randall travels to Israel
intent on dulling his pain by participating in an archaeological dig. When he's unexpectedly called to investigate a burial
plot that was uncovered, he finds himself in the midst of a discovery that could provide substantive archaeological evidence
for Christianity.
He finds his agnostic beliefs challenged by the evidence before him,
yet it will take something more than facts to change his heart. Troubles assail him from the outside as well—his daughter
needs him to father her in a way he never has, the scientific community shuns his discovery, and the Israel authorities insist
on reburying the remains before he has adequate time to examine them. Randall must make choices that will impact the rest
of his life, decisions about faith and priorities that will impact the lives of many.
This tale of discovery and forgiveness weaves past and present together
in a way that will intrigue adventure-lovers.
Faith element: Medium-high
FORSAKEN By James David Jordan ISBN 978-0-8054-4749-1 B&H
Publishing Group Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When terrorists kidnap Simon's daughter they make one demand “Deny
Christ and get your daughter back.” But doing so will have consequences far beyond the kidnapping for celebrity preacher
Simon, his daughter Kacey and Simon's security, Taylor. The kidnapping is only the beginning of unfolding events and discoveries
that lead Taylor to discover that even Christians are flawed. But will she see beyond the mistakes to the Savior Simon serves?
Beyond mystery/suspense, FORSAKEN probes the heart of man, explores the
meaning faith and takes us to the heart of a God of forgiveness and peace. Hard to put down.
HAVAH-The Story of Eve By Tosca Lee ISBN 978-1-60006-124-0
NavPress Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Eve, or Havah, as Adam called her recounts the story of her life from
the moment God whispers “Wake”, to her last breath. From the Garden of Eden through exile and the birthing of
a world, Havah recounts her struggles, her hopes, one son’s murder by his brother, and the turning from God of her descendents.
A sensual, passionate love story of the first woman for, not only her
mate, but for God. From the first bite of forbidden fruit, Eve spends her life trying to get back to the verdant valley of
her birth. Into exile, she brings God’s promise of hope, her bitterness toward a husband who blames her for his eating
of the fruit, and a searching to see God’s face again. Oh, the wonders Havah saw come to fruition, the despair she battles
with, and the hope she carries through her life.
Tosca Lee has crafted a story so real, so full of detail, the reader
will feel as if they know Adam and Havah intimately. The reader will catch a glimpse of God so rich they will take it with
them far beyond the last page. This novel is a ten, not only on the faith scale, but in a well-written story.
THE SECRET'S IN THE SAUCE The Potluck Catering Club By Linda Evans
Shepherd & Eva Marie Everson ISBN 978-0-8007-13208-0 Revell Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The Potluck Club is at it again in a whole new adventure. This time they've
decided to pool their skills and start a catering business. What they don't figure on is all the family and other problems
that overwhelm them, along with secrets that threaten to deep six not only their new venture but also their friendships. Will
faith and friendship stand this latest test?
If you are already hooked from the earlier books, this one will not disappoint.
New to the Potluck Club books, this one will have you searching for the earlier books to “catch up” with this
unique group of women, who, after all, aren't really so different from the rest of us.
Faith element: low to medium
AN IRISHWOMAN'S TALE By Patti Lacy ISBN 978-0-8254-2987-3 Kregel
Publications Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
All her life, fragmented memories of childhood rejection and abandonment
have haunted Mary Freeman. She yearns for family, for acceptance, even after she marries and has children of her own, and
this longing drives all her decisions. Yet no matter what she does—involving herself in church work, devoting herself
to her husband and children, or starting her own business, emptiness and depression always lurk below the surface.
Mary’s about to find out that she must uncover the devastating
reality of her past before she can find healing and hope for the future. But will her fragile emotions survive what she discovers?
In a tale that’s mournful yet not without hope, Mary journeys from
America to Ireland and back again, in search of the healing only God can bring.
BACK TO LIFE A Trophy Wives Club Novel By Kristen Billerbeck ISBN
978-0-06-137877-5 Avon Inspire Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
BACK TO LIFE, the second book in the TROPHY WIVES series, centers on
Lindsey Brindle, a character that will be familiar to readers of the first book. Following the death of her husband a year
ago, Lindsey has turned into a recluse. Guilt over decisions of the past haunts her, and she allows it to dictate her life.
She sees her future as dreary, cloistered in an upscale condo complex
with a group of bitter old women for neighbors. But God has other plans for her, plans that start when her husband’s
first wife shows up on her doorstep. Lindsey is launched into facing her past head on and coming to terms with difficult realities
about herself. Only by working through her past will she find hope for the future.
Lighthearted yet real, and eminently readable.
Faith element: medium
SNOWBOUND COLORADO CHRISTMAS Four Story Collection FIRES
OF LOVE by Tamela Hancock Murray THE BEST MEDICINE by Lena Nelson Dooley ALMOST HOME by Susan Page Davis DRESSED
IN SCARLET by Darlene Franklin ISBN 978-1-60260-116-1 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
It is 1913, Denver, Colorado and four school chums get together with
friends for a Christmas party. But when a blizzard ensures the four friends take very different paths to safety, only to find
romance as well.
The stories are short, fluffy love stories of romance and faith that
tug at the heart and bring a smile. Each of the four stories adds to the collection, and, like eating melt-in-your-mouth chocolate,
the reader savors the very last bite.
A book to read during a cold evening, with a hot drink, in front of a
roaring fire.
Faith element: medium
CYNDERE’S MIDNIGHT By Jeffrey Overstreet ISBN 978-1-4000-7253-8 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
A boy who refuses to give his name as other than “ale boy”.
A mysterious winged creature known as the Keeper. A beautiful heiress, a Seer, and a Beastman.
Cyndere’s husband sets out to tame the Beastmen and is killed by
those he wants to help. Despite her grief, Cyndere wants to finish what her husband started. Her midnight forays into the
surrounding forest starts a chain of events that affect many, and draw into the open a hidden evil.
Cyndere must leave behind those who pledge to have her good at heart
and trust a beast. Can her acceptance of a beastman named Jordam, change the creature’s heart enough for Cyndere to
trust him?
Jeffrey Overstreet has crafted a fantasy tale with rich characters. The
reader will get a glimpse of how goodness overcomes evil, and how even the most despised can be changed. Not overflowing with
spirituality, the reader will nevertheless get a glimpse of the eternal while reading CYNDERE’S MIDNIGHT.
ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT By Davis Bunn ISBN 978-0-7642-0541-5 Bethany
House Reviewer Elisabeth Bantz
Given Wayne Grusza's past experience, he could be languishing in prison
instead of being interviewed for this accounting job he does not want. But his sister The Preacher still holds sway over his
life, so for the time being, he’ll face the room full of misfits and answer their questions. He knows his resume has
holes in it he can't explain, but he is qualified for the CPA job this Christian retirement complex needs. And for the undercover
work that needs to be done. Someone has just bilked the residents, and the board members, of their life savings.
From the time Wayne entered the board room, he has kept his eyes averted,
yet at his sister's insistence, he is able to describe the black man seated behind him in the shadows down to his shoe size,
broken nose, and former occupation. He is the right man for this job. Observant and tenacious. Sure, he has issues, but he's learned to live with them. Sort of.
With a lackluster vote of approval, Wayne finds himself hired and ensconced
in a run-down cabin on Florida's beach-front property with a bunch of retired church people. Two crusty old men decide to
become his new best friends. Throw into this mix a wary lawyer with fantastic legs, a mysterious angel, a sweet old lady from
across the street who prays, and a troubled kid from the ghetto, and the bad guys don't have a chance.
As always, Davis Bunn's writing is brilliant. I highly recommend this
work.
Faith element high
THAT'S NOT EXACTLY AMORE #3 Drama Queen Series By Tracey
Bateman ISBN 978-0-446-69895-5 FaithWords Reviewer Elisabeth Bantz
She's in over her head, but she shakes on it. (A handshake is as good
as a contract the old man insists.) Lani and another student will be designing the interior of the expanded coffee shop, and
the owner's son will be her new boss, the son who makes her insides flip with just a smile. The owner is a long time friend,
but he's moving; the son is something else. What? He's certainly friendly, but what does that mean?
Then her apartment is robbed, and a handsome policeman walks into her
life. Where does he fit in?
Between night school, visiting her widowed and still grieving Mom, baking
goodies for the coffee shop, and juggling two possible suitors, Lani has little time for her decorating assignment.
Quirky and fun, this light read is a winner.
Faith element medium
HIGH IS THE EAGLE Kane Legacy Series By Al & JoAnna Lacy ISBN
978-1-59052-926-3 Multnomah Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
The Kane men are called into the bloody war between America and Mexico.
Their family waits anxiously at home, sending prayers heavenward for the safe return of their husbands and brothers. As the
men fight for their country, they discover a greater calling. That of mounting on wings like eagles and letting God shoulder
their burdens. As they fight, keeping an eye on heaven, and their heart with their loved ones, the Kane brothers make it their
mission to lead others to Christ.
Fans of Al & Joanna Lacy will completely enjoy this western adventure.
Full of historical detail, biblical verses and values, HIGH IS THE EAGLE, takes the reader into a novel containing the atrocities
of war, and the hope of heaven. HIGH IS THE EAGLE, is the final book in the trilogy of the Kane family and resonate with the
reader long after the book is closed. A ten on the faith scale.
COMING UNGLUED A Sisters Ink Novel By Rebeca Seitz ISBN 978-0-8054-4691-3 B&H
Publishing Group Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Kendra Sinclair has two men in her life. One that is definitely good,
the other wrong, but feels so good. How does a woman choose when she feels she is unworthy of a man that can love her unconditionally?
Adopted from a life of child abuse, Kendra feels she is a product of
her mother’s upbringing, or lack there-of. Part owner of a scrapbook networking company with her three sisters, Kendra
embarks on a journey of self-discovery and self-worth. When her life crashes around her, Kendra is open to God’s view
of her and her value. Now, if she can only choose between the two men in her life and do the right thing when she makes her
choice.
Rebecca Seitz has crafted a character the reader will fall in love with.
A beautiful, spirited woman, with wounds that run deep. COMING UNGLUED has a story we can relate to. One full of family ties
and God’s agape love. A ten on the faith scale. A ten for great reading.
MAINE BRIDES Love in Three Novels By Susan Paige Davis ISBN
978-1-60260-106-2 Barbour Publishing Reviewed by Melanie Jones
Susan Page Davis captures the history of romance in MAINE BRIDES. The
three stories surprisingly start from the men's perspectives and carry a strong sense of the male point of view throughout.
THE PRISONER'S WIFE starts the collection with a glimpse of pre-Revolutionary
justice—or the lack thereof—when Jack Hunter is jailed on suspicion of murder based on his father's reputation
and circumstantial evidence. When Lucy Hamblin agreed to marry him, she thought she would be a bride for a day, a widow for
life. Davis sets the stage for suspense well, drawing readers into the search for the real killer.
The Hunter family saga continues in THE CASTAWAY'S BRIDE, when Edward
Hunter returns from five years as a castaway to find his beloved fiancee engaged to his cousin. But her little sister is all
grown up. Again, Davis includes a hint of mystery as Edward tries to figure out discrepancies in his shipping business records.
In THE LUMBERJACK'S LADY, both the lead characters are outcasts to some
extent. Etienne LeClair is a lumberjack called to do an office job, and wealthy Letitia Hunter forsakes the society her wealth
entitles her to in order to please her father by working as a clerk in his office. Keep a hankie in hand for this one.
Faith element is low, though characters live out their faith.
SINGLE SASHIMI Sushi Series By Cami Tang ISBN 978-0-310-27400-1 Zondervan Reviewer
Sarah Sawyer
SINGLE SASHIMI, the third book in the SUSHI SERIES, centers on Venus
Chau, a video game programmer and one of four Christian cousins in an Asian-American family that holds to Buddhist traditions.
As a woman in a male-dominated profession, Venus has developed a tough veneer and a determination not to need anyone. More
than anything, she wants to start her own game development company.
Her life takes a downturn when another, less experienced programmer is
given the promotion she expected at her current job and her boss starts trying to steal the software she’s been developing
on her own time. When she quits her job, she’s faced with a choice: work for Drake Yu again—the last thing on
earth she ever wanted to do, or give up on her dream. As new and increasing challenges confront Venus, she must choose whether
she will try to overcome them by her own strength or if she will listen to God and rely on Him for help.
Sarcastic humor, glimpses of Asian-American culture, and vivid characters
make this a unique tale.
Faith element: Medium
THE BRIDE BARGAIN By Kelly Eileen Hake ISBN 978-1-60260-175-8 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Clara and her aunt find themselves stranded in a small town along the
Oregon Trail after being kicked out of a wagon train by an impatient Wagon Master.
But Josiah Reed who runs the general store, proposes they keep his house
and help him at the store. It seems the perfect temporary solution.
When Josiah has his doctor son, Saul, fill in while he visits his daughter,
Josiah makes a deal with Clara who wants nothing more than to provide for her aunt who took her in after the death of her
parents. If she finds Saul a wife and gets him to settle in the frontier town, Josiah will turn the house over to her. But
nothing goes right as Clara tries to set Saul up with the town's young women. He doesn't cooperate, the other bachelor's don't
cooperate and neither does her heart.
Can Clara learn to trust and find her true home?
An entertaining story with a cast of (mostly) likable characters that
makes me want to visit this place again.
A BEAUTIFUL FALL By Chris Coppernoll ISBN 978-1-4347-6852-0 David
C Cook Reviewer Melanie Jones
Emma Madison is learning that life doesn't always go according to plan.
When the powerful Boston attorney gets a phone call that her father has
had a heart attack, she rushes home to Juneberry, S.C., for the first time in 12 years. Her father recovers quickly, but his
joy at seeing her makes her feel guilty for staying away so long.
Against her senior partner's wishes, she extends her stay in Juneberry,
where she reunites with old friends—more specifically, an old boyfriend. A boyfriend who has been longing for her return
for 12 years.
Reconnecting with friends and family, she can't help but compare her
life in Juneberry to her life in Boston. In Boston, she has wealth and prestige. She can go to the theater and the city's
finest restaurants with co-workers. But life there is centered around work, staying in the office 15 to 18 hours a day some
days. In Juneberry, she has one thing she's missed in Boston: the ability to love and be loved.
Will her friendships be enough to hold her in Juneberry, or will she
return to Boston determined to make new connections there?
Faith Factor: Along with friendships, Emma finds that her life should
be rooted in faith.
MY SISTER DILLY By Maureen Lang ISBN 978-1-4143-2224-7 Tyndale Reviewer
Melanie Jones
MY SISTER DILLY is, at its heart, a story about second chances.
Hannah Williams has had more than six years to rearrange her life so
she can provide the support she believes her sister needs, the support she failed to provide six years ago. Dilly Williams
is leaving prison after more than six years and wants a second chance to be a good mother to her special needs child. Both
sisters find second chances aren't all that easy to come by.
MY SISTER DILLY travels to some dark places, exploring the desperation
of a young mother who has no support in caring for a fragile child and how far that mother will go to be free from her own
pain—and free her daughter from hers.
The story is also a reminder for those among us who are fixers, who believe
we are responsible for solving other people's problems. Sometimes, that help isn't needed or welcome.
Each sister gets a chance for a bit of romance, but those loves are secondary
to the bond between the sisters, and overshadowing it all is God's love for Dilly, who found Him in prison, and for Hannah,
who wants nothing to do with Him through most of the book.
But those second chances? They come only through God's grace, and it's
a joy to read as Hannah discovers that for herself.
Faith element is strong as we watch Hannah come to a relationship with
Christ.
A PROMISE TO BELIEVE IN The Brides of Gallatin County #1 By Tracie
Peterson ISBN 978-0-7642-0148-6 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Gwen lost her husband soon after the wedding. She lost her Pa to a stray
bullet. All her life she's lost those she loved until she feels cursed. All she has are her two feisty younger sisters and
the roadhouse they run for those who need a place to eat or sleep. But when her husband's brother shows up accusing her of
murdering his brother, Gwen finds the walls she's built to protect herself, crumbling as she questions her faith, what's best
for the sisters bent on protecting her, the love of her husband who kept secrets from her and the man who has come for retribution.
Will Gwen be able to move beyond her hurt and pain to find the road to
healing...and love?
As always with Tracie's stories, A PROMISE TO BELIEVE IN is a delight
to read as it draws in the reader with characteristic smooth writing, well-drawn characters that come to life on the page
and a story that entangles from the first page. I can't wait to read the sequels and the love stories of Gwen's sisters. A
great start to a welcome new Peterson series.
Faith element: medium to high
THE OTHER SIDE OF DARKNESS By Melody Carlson ISBN 978-1-4000-7081-7 Multnomah Reviewer
Melanie Jones
Ruth's life is falling apart, and it's all because of Satan, isn't it?
So why aren't cleansing prayers enough to fix her finances? Why aren't the prayers of deliverance from her church's inner
circle enough to put her family back together again?
Through Ruth's eyes, Melody Carlson takes us to THE OTHER SIDE OF DARKNESS,
the result of Ruth's Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and a toxic, quasi-cult church.
Ruth's pastor and women's ministry leader see demons lurking around every
corner instead of evidence of God's grace. And the idea that prayer can cast out demons gives Ruth some sense of control,
and feeds her obsessions. Soon nearly every item in her house—and even some of the people in it—is associated
with dark spirits.
Carlson, who painted such a vivid portrait of life with schizophrenia
in FINDING ALICE, turns her considerable talents to OCD and how mental illnesses can leave some people so much more vulnerable
to those who twist religion into something God never intended.
THE OTHER SIDE OF DARKNESS is a powerful book, but not a happy-fun read.
The first-person perspective means the unrelenting onslaught of Ruth's obsessions becomes the readers', too. Those who find
themselves empathizing with books' characters may find it best as a daytime read, so Ruth's anxiety doesn't cost the reader
any sleep.
The faith element is strong as it reminds readers of the dangers of false
prophets and wolves in sheep's clothing.
UNPRETTY By Sharon Carter Rogers ISBN 978-1-4165-6649-6 Howard
Publishing Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
On a wall of the Sistine Chapel in Italy is Michelangelo’s masterpiece,
The Last Judgment. A piece of art, as horribly depicting man’s final resting places as it is beautiful. This picture
shows the cruelty and anguish of Hell as well as the fearsome compassion of Christ. This knowledge is frightening to a killing
artist known only as “26.”
When a cult calling themselves the Michelangelus Movement, kidnaps people
in order to recreate the original artwork and rid the world of all things “unpretty,” Hummingbird Collins and
her family are thrust into danger. With the help of an ex-football pro turned priest, and a mentally challenged young man,
Hummingbird brings the new version of The Last Judgment to light. At the risk of her life.
Sharon Carter Rogers has crafted a well-written story so suspenseful
you will race through the pages. UNPRETTY is thought-provoking. What does the world consider pretty? What does God? Beautiful
on the outside, does not necessarily mean pretty on the inside.
WHEN THE SOUL MENDS By Cindy Woodsmall ISBN 978-1-4000-7294-1 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Melanie Jones
Everyone who read "The Sisters of the Quilt" series by Cindy Woodsmall
has eagerly awaited WHEN THE SOUL MENDS, the third and final installment, to learn which man Hannah Lapp chooses. There's
the wealthy, worldly and loving Martin with his niece and nephew, or steady, Plain Mennonite Paul, the man Hannah believes
betrayed her.
Don't worry. You'll find your answers in WHEN THE SOUL MENDS, but if
you skim over the pages looking for the answers to your biggest questions, you'll miss something deeper. You'll miss the journey
to discovering what true love is. You'll miss the yearning for forgiveness and the struggle to forgive. You'll miss the author's
insight into the meaning of forgiveness.
THE JEWEL OF HIS HEART 
THREE TIMES BLESSED
DEADLY CHARM 
JULLIAN DARE
BELOVED COUNTERFEIT
JOURNEY TO THE WELL 
![Yesterday's Embers](http://search.live.com/images/results.aspx?q="yesterday s" embers&mkt=en-US&FORM=HOTAPI#focal=51bd8c534e5795cb922f4b371cb88ad7&furl=http://assets3.snsassets.ca/images/books/9781416593096.jpg?1233244194 "View image on Live Search")
![Simon & Schuster: Katt's in the Cradle: A Secrets from Lulu's Cafe ...](http://search.live.com/images/results.aspx?q="katt s" in the cradle&mkt=en-US&FORM=HOTAPI#focal=8a24b790d246bd8f11cade8a91711f62&furl=http://www.simonsays.com/assets/isbn/1416543899/C_1416543899.jpg "View image on Live Search")
