The Confessions of X

The Confessions of X
Suzanne M Wolfe
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-0718039615
January 2016/304 pages/$15.99
Before he became a father of the Christian Church, Augustine of Hippo loved a woman whose name has been lost to history. This is her story.

She met Augustine in Carthage when she was seventeen. She was the poor daughter of a mosaic-layer; he was a promising student and heir to a fortune. His brilliance and passion intoxicated her, but his social class would be forever beyond her reach. She became his concubine, and by the time he was forced to leave her, she was thirty years old and the mother of his son. And his Confessions show us that he never forgot her. She was the only woman he ever loved.

In a society in which classes rarely mingle on equal terms, and an unwed mother can lose her son to the burgeoning career of her ambitious lover, this anonymous woman was a first-hand witness to Augustine’s anguished spiritual journey from secretive religious cultist to the celebrated Bishop of Hippo.

Giving voice to one of history’s most mysterious women, The Confessions of X tells the story of Augustine of Hippo’s nameless lover, their relationshipbefore his famous conversion, and her life after his rise to fame. A tale of womanhood, faith, and class at the end of antiquity, The Confessions of X is more than historical fiction . . . it is a timeless story of love and loss in the shadow of a theological giant.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Suzanne M. Wolfe grew up in Manchester, England and read English Literature at Oxford University, where she co-founded the Oxford C.S. Lewis Society.She is Writer in Residence at Seattle Pacific University and has taught literature and creative writing there since 2000. Wolfe is the author of Unveiling: A Novel (Paraclete Press, 2004). Twenty five years ago, she and her husband, Gregory Wolfe, co-founded Image, a journal of the arts and faith. They have also co-authored many books on literature and prayer including Books That Build Character: How to Teach Your Child Moral Values Through Stories (with William Kirk Kilpatrick, Simon & Schuster, 1994), and Bless This House: Prayers For Children and Families (Jossey-Bass, 2004). Her essays and blog posts have appeared in Image and other publications. Wolfe is currently working on a series of mystery novels set in Elizabethan London. She and her husband are the parents of four grown children. They live in Richmond Beach, Washington. Visit http://www.suzannemwolfe.com

MY THOUGHTS

Suzanne M Wolfe gives voice to an anonymous and forgotten figure from history in this compelling novel. While she makes it clear that it is fiction, portions are drawn from research and from the writings of Augustine of Hippo. Wolfe's talent for crafting a story shines through her expressive prose. But while I was drawn into the book by the plight of X and the disparities between classes, I found it to be somewhat sad and depressing as well. While that is just another mark of a well-written book, for the reader to experience the emotions of the situation, my reaction was also based on X's spiritual beliefs. It can also be debated whether this should be classified as Christian fiction vs. religious fiction. Separating that from the overall quality of the novel, I found this to be a thought-provoking and masterfully written piece of historical fiction.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Thomas Nelson and the TNZ Fiction Guild for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Cold Shot Sweepstakes Giveaway!

Earlier this month, I told you about Dani Pettrey's new release, Cold Shot. the first book in her new Chesapeake Valor series. (Read my review here.) I am happy to share with you that Dani and her publisher have put together a fun Sweepstakes Giveaway celebrating the launch of this book and series. Keep reading to learn more about the prizes and how to enter!




Summary:

In COLD SHOT, the first book of author Dani Pettrey’s brand new Chesapeake Valor series, park ranger Griffin McCray and forensic anthropologist Finley Scott uncover buried remains near the Civil War battleground of Little Round Top. There’s only one problem: the bones aren’t Civil War-era.

Griffin just wants the case to go away, but when Finley discovers evidence pointing to the work of an expert sniper, the case connects them with FBI agent Declan Grey, and crime scene investigator Parker Mitchell, friends from a past Griffin’s tried to leave behind.

Soon the reunited friends realize they’ll need to confront the darkest days in their shared history if they–and those they care about–are going to escape a downward spiral of crime, danger, and murder.

To celebrate the launch of this exciting new series, Dani and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the COLD SHOT SWEEPSTAKES, and your chance to win one of three marvelous prizes, all closely connected to the story.

Timeframe & Notifications:

This giveaway starts February 16, 2016 and ends March 7, 2016 @ 11:59 pm (PST).

Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Tuesday, March 8, 2016, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.



GRAND PRIZE:

ROAD TRIP REUNION GETAWAY

In COLD SHOT, Griffin reunites with friends after they’ve drifted apart over the years. Do you have a friend you want to reconnect with? Here’s your chance to hit the road with them for a friend getaway!


Our Grand Prize winner will receive: A $250 gift certificate to BedandBreakfast.com, good for reservations at lodges across the Continental US, plus a $50 Darden restaurants gift card, and a Chesapeake Bay tote bag, to pack your road trip essentials.


SECOND PRIZE:

FINLEY’S FAVORITES PACK

Finley has a lifelong love of travel and exploration, something captured in her cozy home decor, right down to her steamer trunk coffee table. This prize gives you a chance to have a steamer trunk just like Finley’s, and a coffee table book from the Chesapeake Bay to go with it.

Our Second Prize winner will receive: A $150 value cedar wood steamer trunk and vivid Maryland coffee table photo book.


THIRD PRIZE:

TASTE OF MARYLAND KIT

COLD SHOT is sure to leave you with a craving for the mouth-watering snacks Griffin, Finley, and the rest of the crew enjoy in the story. If you wish you could sample Chesapeake’s one-of-a-kind local fare too, this prize is for you.

Our Third Prize winner will receive: The beautifully lithographed, $50 value Taste of Maryland Tin, including the Chesapeake Bay Cookbook and famed local treats such as Old Bay Seasoning, Maple Syrup, Maryland crab soup mix, specialty dip, and Goetze’s Caramel Creams.



How to Enter:

Go to: http://www.danipettrey.com/cold-shot-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between February 16 – March 7, 2016.

A Sweet Misfortune

A Sweet Misfortune
Virtues and Vices
Maggie Brendan
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800722654
February 2016/336 pages/$14.99
Rachel Matthews isn't one to rely on others to take care of her. Homeless and alone, she still wants to make her own way and her own money to buy back the family ranch--even if she's forced into the life of a dance hall girl. Horrified by her circumstances, Rachel's brother, who is away mining for gold, sends a friend to rescue her.

Cattle baron John McIntyre is focused on acquiring as much land as possible in Montana and has little time to deal with a dance hall gal. Rachel isn't sure she can take one more day in John's home--especially once she discovers that he's the one who holds ransom the key to her family's future.

Sparks fly between this spunky, independent heroine and the ruggedly handsome hero as they navigate the snarled terrain of pride, greed, faith, and love in Maggie Brendan's delightful series set in the Old West.

Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maggie Brendan is the CBA bestselling author of the Heart of the West series and The Blue Willow Brides series, as well as The Trouble with Patience. Her books have received the Book Buyers Best Award from the Orange County Chapter of Romance Writers of America and the Laurel Wreath Award. A member of the American Fiction Writers Association, Romance Writers of America, Georgia Romance Writers, and Author's Guild, Maggie lives in Georgia.


MY THOUGHTS

Maggie Brendan continues her Virtues and Vices of the Old West series with another engaging novel. The pages are peppered with lively action, beginning with the dramatic opening, and plenty of verbal sparring. Vivid scenes and memorable characters bring the Montana frontier to life, making me grateful for the wider array of employment options available to women today. While many things have changed, however, the battles of the heart and soul are timeless, and Brendan expertly weaves a relevant message of faith and love into this heartwarming story. I'm already eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. It will be your own bitter mishap if you overlook this book so grab your copy of A Sweet Misfortune today!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Baker/Revell for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


VIRTUES AND VICES OF THE OLD WEST -
MY REVIEWS
The Trouble with Patience

Charity's Cross

Charity's Cross
Charles Towne Belles, Book 4
Mary Lu Tyndall
(Ransom Press)
ISBN: 978-0997167115
January 2016/328 pages/$11.95
From the Winner of 2015's Inspirational Readers Choice Award for The Ransom comes a new romantic adventure!

Suspected of killing her husband, Charity Westcott flees on the first ship out of Portsmouth, England heading for the colonies. Loathing all men after her abusive marriage, she hopes to reunite with her family in Charles Towne, but the ship’s destination is Nassau. When she spots her husband’s brother, who is intent on seeing her hang, boarding her ship, she jumps overboard.

Elias Dutton, missionary and son of the famous pirate, Rowan Dutton, must get to Barbados as soon as possible. His sister is in danger, and his parents have charged him with her safety. He cannot let them down—again. But after rescuing a madcap woman from the bay, he now finds himself tricked into masquerading as her husband so they both can procure passage to Barbados.

Pirates, storms, shipwreck and betrayal threaten to delay the couple in their journey even as sparks fly between them. With her brother-in-law in fast pursuit, the last thing Charity wants is help from a man, especially a religious one, but she has no choice. After Elias’ heart was broken by a sordid woman who nearly ruined his life, he seeks a godly woman pure as the virgin sands of the Caribbean. He believes he has found such a woman in Charity. Until he discovers she is a murderer and is now faced with two choices: letting her go or turning her in to the authorities.


Read the first chapterhere.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A Christy Award finalist and best-selling author, MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of tall ships and swashbuckling heroes during her childhood years on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years. Trapped in a land-locked cubicle, she was often seen pounding furiously upon the keyboard during her lunch hour, creating what would become her Legacy of the King’s Pirates series, all the while believing God’s promise to her that. “If you write it, I will get it published”. And He did! Fourteen books later, her loving husband and six children still haven’t gotten used to her historic costumes and nautical speech.

MaryLu describes herself as an introvert, patriot, mother of six, the neighborhood cat-lady, tall ship enthusiast, friend of pirates and mermaids, obsessive compulsive control freak, history lover, hopeless romantic, and a sword wielding princess-warrior of the King of Kings. Her books are filled with adventure and romance and themes that are guaranteed to touch your heart! She continues to pen her romantic tales on the California coast while managing a home, husband, six adult kids, and several stray cats who have decided that her keyboard is the best place to sleep! She believes that without popcorn and chocolate, life would not be worth living, and her sole motivation in life is to bring others closer to God.

Visit her website, Facebook page, and Pinterest to learn more.


MY THOUGHTS

No one writes high seas adventure stories like MaryLu Tyndall, and she pulls out all the stops with this final volume in her Charles Towne Belles series. While each book stands alone, you don't want to miss a single one! Charity's Cross opens with a bang, and the adrenaline-laced action doesn't pause until the final page is turned. Flawed and far too impulsive, Charity nonetheless endeared herself to me, as did Elias, who is the ultimate hero. Tyndall carefully weaves a magnificent faith theme into this story, and the final scenes took my breath away. Don't miss this incredible novel of love and trust.

I purchased a digital copy of this book.

The Red Door Inn

The Red Door Inn
Prince Edward Island Dreams, Book 1
Liz Johnson
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800724023
February 2016/352 pages/$14.99
Marie Carrington is broke, desperate, and hoping to find sanctuary on Prince Edward Island while decorating a renovated bed-and-breakfast. Seth Sloane moved three thousand miles to help restore his uncle's Victorian B and B--and to forget about the fiancée who broke his heart. He wasn't expecting to have to babysit a woman with a taste for expensive antiques and a bewildering habit of jumping every time he brushes past her.

The only thing Marie and Seth agree on is that getting the Red Door Inn ready to open in just two months will take everything they've got--and they have to find a way to work together. In the process, they may find something infinitely sweeter than they ever imagined on this island of dreams.

Read an excerpt.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Liz Johnson is a full-time marketing specialist for a Nashville-based publisher. She has been a freelance writer and editor for several publications, including CBA Retailers+Resources, Christian Fiction Online magazine, and Storytellers Journal. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, she is the author of several books, including The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn (an ACFW Carol Award finalist) and A Star in the Night, which was part of the New York Times and ECPA bestselling A Log Cabin Christmas Collection. She lives in Nashville, Tennessee.


MY THOUGHTS

A book penned by Liz Johnson is a must-read for me. And who can resist a novel and series set on Prince Edward Island, home of the legendary Anne of Green Gables? My eager expectations realized complete fulfillment as I immediately disappeared into the world of Marie, Seth, and Jack as they worked to get The Red Door Inn open for business. With characters who are as much in need of restoration as the cottage they are renovating, The Red Door Inn brings hope to the heart amidst the pages of a thoroughly satisfying story. Johnson's writing is solid and full of delectable moments. I loved the occasional reference to the Green Gables series and its author, such as when a sweet and spicy pastry is likened to "an L. M. Montgomery story in edible form." Clever discourse adds to the sheer delight this book provides, as demonstrated by the artful repartee between the various characters as well as the interior monologues glimpsed only by the reader. While Marie and Seth are the main focus of this tale, Johnson tucks in a few surprises relating to other characters, which only increases the book's sigh-worthiness. Don't miss the chance to "visit" Prince Edward Island and The Red Door Inn, a must-read and one for the keeper shelf!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Liz Johnson and Baker/Revell for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Cold Shot

Cold Shot
Chesapeake Valor, Book 1
Dani Pettrey
(Bethany House Publishers)
ISBN: 978-0764211973
January 2016/336 pages/$14.99
Four Best Friends.
And Then One Went Missing . . .

In college, Griffin McCray and his three best friends had their lives planned out. Griffin and Luke Gallagher would join the Baltimore Police Department, Declan Grey would head to the FBI, and Parker Mitchell would study to become a crime scene analyst. But then Luke vanished before graduation and their world--and friendships--crumbled.

Now years later, Griffin has left the police and his friendships behind. Still trying to forget a case that went bad when he was a SWAT team sniper, he's living a quiet life as a park ranger at Gettysburg. Quiet until skeletal remains are uncovered near Little Round Top--and they aren't Civil War-era.

Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist Finley Scott discovers evidence pointing to the work of an expert sniper. When FBI agent Declan Grey steps in to take over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he'll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if he--and those he cares about--are going to escape a downward spiral of crime, danger, and murder.

Read an excerpt.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the Alaskan Courage romantic suspense series, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and Sabotaged. Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award, among others.

She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves--the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of her characters' faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their two daughters, a son-in-law, and a super adorable grandson. You can find her online at danipettrey.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Dani Pettrey garnered many fans and awards with her debut Alaskan Courage series, and I predict this new series will be just as successful. Infused with adrenaline and heart-stopping action, Cold Shot showcases Pettrey at her best: a gripping plot, dynamic characters, and perfectly paced suspense that kept me reading "just one more chapter" until I had finished the book. At times, it isn't certain whether the sparks or bullets fly faster in this race to identify the victim as well as the one responsible for the horrific crime. Between Griffin butting heads with his friends, the tug of romance between him and Finley, and the danger lurking around every corner, Cold Shot is rife with tension and emotion as well as a strong faith message. Mark this as a must-read book and series!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Dani Pettrey and Baker/Bethany House for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Newsmakers

The Newsmakers
Lis Wiehl with
Sebastian Stuart
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-0718037673
January 2016/352 pages/Hardcover/$26.99
What if it turns out that the newsmakers are actually making the news happen?

Television reporter Erica Sparks has just landed her dream job at Global News Network. Beautiful, talented, and ambitious, Erica grew up dirt poor, worked her way through Yale, and is carrying a terrible secret. She moves to Manhattan to join GNN, leaving Jenny, her adored 7-year-old daughter, in the custody of her ex-husband. Erica’s producer at the network, Greg Underwood, is handsome and compelling. Scarred by her divorce, Erica is wary of romance, but there’s no denying the mutual attraction.

On one of her first assignments, Erica witnesses a horrific Staten Island ferry crash. Then she lands a coveted interview with presumptive presidential nominee Kay Barrish. During the interview Barrish collapses. Erica valiantly tries to save her with CPR. The footage rivets the world—GNN’s ratings soar and Erica is now a household name.

But she’s troubled. What a strange coincidence that both events should happen on her watch. It’s almost as if they were engineered. Is that possible?

Erica’s relentless pursuit of the truth puts her life and that of her daughter in danger. Her investigation leads her into the heart of darkness—where the future of our democracy is at stake.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lis Wiehl is a New York Times best-selling author, Harvard Law School graduate, and former federal prosecutor. A popular legal analyst and commentator for the Fox News Channel, Wiehl appears weekly on The O’Reilly Factor, Lou Dobbs Tonight, Imus in the Morning, Kelly’s Court, and more. Learn more at liswiehlbooks.com and on Facebook and Twitter.


MY THOUGHTS

I have loved Lis Wiehl's previous books and was excited to have the chance to review her latest. While there is much to like about this novel, I was a bit disappointed. I can only suspect the reason is the switch in collaborators, from April Henry to Sebastian Stuart. The writing isn't as tight as her other suspense novels, and the ending is a totally predictable. In fact, some blatant clues and foreshadowing appeared fairly early in the story. Additionally, at least one thread was randomly woven in but not followed through consistently. As far as I'm concerned, it could have been left out completely as one scene stretched the limits of what I expect from a Christian novel. (Although I'm not sure I would really label this a Christian novel aside from the publisher.) I did like the two main characters, Erika and Greg; that and my previous positive experience with Wiehl's books prompted me to finish the book. You may have a different view, however, so check it out for yourself!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Keeper of the Stars

Keeper of the Stars
(A King's Meadow Romance)
Robin Lee Hatcher
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-1401687717
January 2016/304 pages/$15.99

Because it’s not always love at first sight!

When her mother died from pneumonia, Penny Cartwright was heartbroken. But now, after burying her younger brother just 12 years later, she is devastated. Anger, guilt, and sorrow cloud Penny’s mind, and the last thing she wants is to be reminded of her pain—but that’s exactly what happens when a stranger comes to town.

Trevor Reynolds has been chasing fame for more than a dozen years, but his musical career can’t get off the ground. While on the road, an accident kills his young drummer, Brad Cartwright. Trevor wasn’t behind the wheel, but he still blames himself… and so does Brad’s sister, Penny. Now Trevor finds himself in Kings Meadow, determined to follow through on his final promise to his friend.

Still feeling the pain of Brad’s death, Penny and Trevor must learn that forgiveness is the only thing that can heal their hearts. And if they do forgive, something beautiful may rise from the ashes of heartbreak.

Read a sample chapter.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels. Find out more about Robin Lee at http://robinleehatcher.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Robin Lee Hatcher takes the reader on an emotion-filled journey in this tender story of love, loss, and forgiveness. Penny's grief is palpable and it is easy to empathize with her as she attempts to cope with the loss of her brother, a loss that reopens the wounds in her heart caused by her mother's death. Hatcher cleverly intersperses flashback chapters of Brad's life to give the reader a stronger sense of the loss that Penny, her dad, and Trevor are coping with. Keeper of the Stars will have you alternately laughing and reaching for a tissue. Don't miss this heart-warming tale with a beautiful faith message woven throughout. A perfect read for the month of romance!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity Group for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


Love at first sight isn’t always the case—especially in Robin Lee Hatcher’s new book, Keeper of the Stars, in A King’s Meadow Romance series. Still feeling the pain of Brad’s death, Penny and Trevor must learn that forgiveness is the only thing that can heal their hearts. And if they do forgive, something beautiful may rise from the ashes of heartbreak.

Celebrate the release of Keeper of the Stars with Robin by entering to win a Kindle Fire HD! Click the graphic below to enter. The winner will be announced on February 16 on Robin’s blog and social media.

February New Releases from ACFW Authors

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Amish Romance:

Joshua's Mission by Vannetta Chapman -- Joshua Kline travels from his farm in Oklahoma to offer aid to an Englisch town on the gulf coast of Texas after a category 4 hurricane has ravaged the area. He brings his brother with him, hoping to keep Alton from another brush with the law. Joshua is pleasantly surprised when he hears that Becca Troyer, the bishop's granddaughter, plans on joining their team. What will Joshua find when he arrives in Texas? A lack of electricity, certainly, which poses little problem for the Amish volunteers as they help restore order from destruction. But a budding romance? A call from God? And a possible healing of his relationship with Alton? (Amish Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

An Amish Market: Four Novellas by Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin, and Vannetta Chapman -- All the color and variety of a quaint Amish shop in a charming collection of novellas by four of your favorite authors. Love Birds by Amy Clipston: Ellie Lapp takes a liking to Lloyd's beautifully carved wooden birds, not to mention the young man himself, when she convinces this friend of her deceased brother's to sell his creations in the gift shop where she works. But will his family's plans for him come between their budding relationship? A Bid for Love by Kathleen Fuller: Every week, confirmed bachelor Ezra buys Hannah Lynne's home-churned butter at the local market, barely glancing her way, despite her hope to the contrary. But when Ezra bids an exorbitant amount to win the quilt she had her heart set on, Hannah Lynne can't stop wondering if Ezra is finally in the market for love. Sweeter Than Honey by Kelly Irvin: Shattering a jar of pickled beets in Bee County's Combination Store was embarrassing enough without Isabella's receiving a frosty reaction from the handsome store manager, Will Glick. But she soon learns Will's heart is in pieces. Now, Isabella finds herself longing to be the one to repair it and renew his faith in love. Love in Store by Vannetta Chapman: Stella Schrock and new employee David Stoltzfus, a recent widower, have to work together to solve the mystery of strange events happening at the Old Amish Mill, and in the process they may find God has more in store than they imagined. (Amish Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Biblical:

The Prophetess: Deborah's Story by Jill Eileen Smith -- Outspoken and fearless, Deborah has faith in God but struggles to see the potential her own life holds. As an Israelite woman, she'll marry, have a family, and seek to teach her children about Adonai--and those tasks seem to be more than enough to occupy her time. But God has another plan for her. Israel has been under the near constant terror of Canaan's armies for twenty years, and now God has called Deborah to deliver her people from this oppression. Will her family understand? Will her people even believe God's calling on her life? And can the menace of Canaan be stopped?
(Biblical from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Children's:

Samantha Sanderson Without a Trace by Robin Caroll -- Sam Sanderson dreams of becoming an award-winning journalist like her mother, so she's always looking for articles to publish in her middle-school paper, where she secretly hopes to become chief editor. With a police officer for a father, Sam is never short on writing material. When Sam's friend Tam Lee goes missing, all clues seem to point to something sinister in Sam's opinion. Sam must decide whether to trust law enforcement's opinion that Tam's a run-away or follow her heart and poke around for more clues? (Children's from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Hope Girl by Wendy Dunham -- With the discovery of her birth father, 12-year-old River has to decide if she should continue living with Gram, who has been her family for the past ten years, or with her father, who she's over-the-moon to have just met but knows little about. And when River is diagnosed with a condition that could impact her future, she feels overwhelmed and bewildered. That's when River asks God for help and decides to trust him with her dreams. (Children's from Harvest House Publishers)

Contemporary Romance:

Island Hope by Kimberly Rose Johnson -- Metal sculptor Hope Michaels gave up on art when her creativity was zapped by another and buries herself in an electrical contracting job on Wildflower Island. She never imagines her best friend and employer, Piper, would turn matchmaker. When a lonely widower is promoted to manager of the Wildflower Resort, his new responsibilities complicate his relationship with his teenage daughter. Seeking advice from a feisty-but-sweet newcomer, he never expects things to only get more complicated. (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

General:

Renovating the Richardsons by Virginia Smith -- In the small town of Goose Creek, Kentucky, Millie Richardson is renovating a drafty Victorian house into a B&B while her husband, Al, busily writes checks for the renovations. Also, the new vet, Susan, has finally found acceptance from the town--not to mention a hunky new boyfriend, Justin. But things never stay quiet for long in Goose Creek. The inner-county softball game is coming up, and Millie volunteers Al as team manager. But the softball team is a disaster. If they're not going to embarrass themselves in front of the whole of Franklin County, Al needs Justin to play. But Justin lives just outside the city limits, and the rules say that players must live in town. As if that weren't enough to keep the town gossips busy, a massage therapist opens up shop in town. Imagine--a massage parlor!--in Goose Creek! No decent Creeker will stand for it. It's up to Al and Millie--again--to save the day. (General from Harvest House Publishers)

Historical Romance:

The Love Is Patient Romance Collection by Janet Lee Barton, Frances Devine, Lena Nelson Dooley, Vickie McDonough, Darlene Franklin, Jill Stengl, Connie Stevens, and Erica Vetsch -- Enjoy the slow dance through the courtship of nine historical couples in the American west, including the territories of Arizona and Wyoming. Just at a time in life when they have nearly given up on finding love, romance enters their lives. But will it be true love, and will it be worth the wait? Find out in this delightful collection written by eight bestselling authors of inspirational romances. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

A Sweet Misfortune by Maggie Brendan -- Rachel Matthews isn't one to rely on others to take care of her. Destitute and alone, she still wants to make her own way and her own money--even if she's forced into the life of a dance hall girl. Horrified by her circumstances, Rachel's brother sends a friend--the widely admired cattle baron John McIntyre--to rescue her, then sets off to earn enough money to buy back the family ranch. But when months pass without her brother's return, Rachel isn't sure she can take one more day in John McIntyre's home--especially once she discovers that he's the one who holds the deed to her family's ranch. (Historical Romance from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

A Spy's Devotion by Melanie Dickerson -- After suffering a battlefield injury, wealthy, well-connected British officer Nicholas Langdon returns home to heal—and to fulfill a dying soldier's last wish by delivering his coded diary. At a ball hosted by the powerful Whilhelm family, Langdon meets their beautiful and intelligent ward, Julia Grey. Honoring propriety, he keeps his distance—until the diary is stolen and all clues lead to Julia's guardian. As Langdon traces an evil plot that could be the nation's undoing, he grows ever more intrigued by the lovely young woman. And when Julia realizes that England-and the man she is falling in love with—need her help, she finds herself caught in the fray. (Historical Romance from Waterfall Press, an imprint of Amazon Publishing)

The Express Rider's Lady by Stacy Henrie -- Delsie Radford's father may have kept her and her sister apart, but Delsie refuses to miss her sister's wedding-even with only eighteen days to get there. And she's found the perfect escort in Pony Express rider Myles Patton. Myles can't believe it when a pretty socialite hires him to take her cross-country through dangerous territory. He's sure she'll give up soon, but the longer they ride together, the more Myles notices the toughness and kindness beneath Delsie's refined exterior. And though they may be worlds apart…they might just be perfect for each other. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

The Texan's Engagement Agreement by Noelle Marchand -- It's been five years since Adelaide Harper broke Chris Johansen's heart-and their long-distance engagement. But when she steps off a train in Peppin, Texas, and strolls back into Chris's life, he can't help but panic. To avoid his parents' plan to arrange a marriage for him, he's let his family believe he and Adelaide are still engaged. Adelaide is facing her own troubles with a matchmaking mama and a parade of aggravating suitors. So pretending to let Chris court her could help them both. Surely after five years, there's no need to worry their time together could reignite a long-buried love…is there? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Northern Light by Annette O'Hare -- The Yankees took her fiancés life, but when a wounded Union soldier washes ashore, needing her help, will she learn to love again or will hate cost him his life? (Historical Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican))

Romantic Suspense:

Rocky Mountain Pursuit by Mary Alford -- Everyone believes agent Jase Bradford is dead-everyone but Reyna Peterson. Only he can protect her now that someone wants the information her CIA husband died to secure. As the one member of their spy team not killed, Jase must remain in the shadows. Yet when Reyna leads the enemy right to his mountain refuge and blows his cover, Jase risks his life for hers. As his best friend's beautiful widow scales the walls around his heart, whether out of loyalty or love, he makes it his duty to secure her safety. But when their pursuers trap them in the snowy Colorado mountains, will it become his final mission? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Always Watching by Lynette Eason -- The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have more than just skill and prowess in common--they're also all women. When it becomes clear that popular psychiatrist and radio personality Wade Savage has a stalker, his father secretly hires Elite Guardians in order to protect his son. But when Wade's bodyguard is attacked and nearly killed, agency owner Olivia Edwards must step in and fill the gap. Olivia's skills are about to be tested to the limit as Wade's stalker moves from leaving innocent gifts at his door to threatening those closest to him. Olivia has the feeling that she's next on the list. And to complicate things even further, she realizes that her heart may be in as much danger as her client. (Romantic Suspense from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Navy SEAL Security by Liz Johnson -- Wounded navy SEAL Luke Dunham's only goal is returning to active duty…until he rescues his physical therapist from a lethal attack. Now he'll risk everything-even his recovery-—to keep Mandy Berg's attacker at bay. Mandy's been burned before when she trusted the wrong man. And she knows better than to develop feelings for one of her patients. Yet how can she help falling for a man who does not hesitate to put his strength, his skill and his very life in harm's way to keep her safe? Relying on anyone feels dangerous…but turning away Luke's protection could be deadly. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Pandora's Deed by Monica Mynk -- Savannah Barrett fled her Dreyfus home to escape childhood bullies, and planned to stay away for good. Body image struggles have led her to give up so much of herself to empty relationships, she believes no one could desire her for more. Geoff Spencer, her former tormentor, is the man who could love her anyway. He cleaned up his life, stopped bullying, and found Christ. When she inherits his farm, she returns to claim the property and face her dreadful past, never expecting to claim his heart. But the property transfer unearths a mystery that some would prefer to stay buried and plants Savannah in the path of a psychopath who'd rather dispose of her rather than expose the past. (Romantic Suspense from Mantle Rock Publishing)

Cold Shot by Dani Pettrey -- In college, Griffin McCray and his four best friends had their lives planned out. But one of them vanished before graduation and their world--and friendships--crumbled. Now Griffin is a park ranger at Gettysburg, having left life as a SWAT-team sniper when a case went bad. The job is mostly quiet--until the day he captures two relic hunters uncovering skeletal remains near Little Round Top. Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist Finley Scott determines that the body is modern--a young social justice lawyer missing since spring--and all evidence points to the work of an expert sniper. When of Griffin's former friends, FBI agent Declan Gray, takes over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he'll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if he--and those he cares about--are going to escape a downward spiral of murder that crosses continents. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

Speculative:

The Last Apostle by Dennis Brooke -- What if John, the last living apostle of Jesus Christ, was still alive and well… and living in Seattle? In A.D. 100, John is restored to the body of his youth and sent on a mission with a warning: to never reveal his true identity. Fast-forward to modern day Seattle, where both friends and foes are on the verge of discovering who he truly is-an event that will trigger the end times. (Speculative from Made for Grace)

Far and Near by Amanda G. Stevens -- Marcus, Lee, Austin, and Violet are starting over. Texas is supposed to be their sanctuary. But the Constabulary isn't ready to relinquish their worst offenders, legal jurisdiction or not. They've sent agents in undercover, and Marcus is the assigned target of one who has personal reasons to bring him back dead or alive. Marcus and Lee are ready to be whole again, to secure a home here--together. But wholeness and home might not mean what they thought. Stopping the Constabulary hunters will require more than Marcus knows how to give, and God is about to use him again in a way he doesn't expect. (Speculative from David C. Cook)

Thriller/Suspense:

Voice in the Wilderness by H. L. Wegley -- As catastrophes drive the US into martial law, all eyes are on America, waiting to see what emerges. KC Banning, network specialist, discovers President Hannan's tyrannical plans and is branded a terrorist, sending her fleeing the Beltway to find her childhood soulmate and protector, Brock Daniels. Brock, a writer and man of faith, gives CPR to a dying nation through his blog, which is read by military members still loyal to the Constitution. But starting a grassroots insurgency while reconciling KC's and Brock's broken relationship proves difficult. When Hannan sends Special Forces to kill Brock and KC, starting a war in the Central Oregon desert, reconciliation, like staying alive, might be impossible. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published using Trinity Press International)