Homespun

Homespun:
Amish and Mennonite Women in their Own Words
Lorilee Craker, Editor
(Herald Press)
ISBN: 978-1513803166
August 2018/192 pages/$15.99
Straight from the pens of Amish and Mennonite women . . .

Ever wish you could visit with a group of Amish or Mennonite women over a cup of coffee? In the pages of Homespun, Amish and Plain Mennonite women swap stories and spin yarns while we listen in. Lorilee Craker, bestselling author of Money Secrets of the Amish, collects these personal writings about hospitality, home, grief, joy, and walks with God. Hear from one woman who struggles with feeling inferior to her sister, from another about her longing for a baby, and from a third who accidentally bought stretchy material to sew her husband’s pants. Each woman’s story is a testament to the grace of God and the blessings of community.

Behind Amish romance novels and tourist spots and television shows stand real people, with longings and loves just like the rest of us. Every Amish and Mennonite woman has a story. In Homespun, you get to hear some of them.


“Homespun reads like a leisurely visit with an old friend. It starts off with light, chatty topics before settling into the-deep-part-of-the-heart experiences, such as a young mom recovering from the stillborn birth of her little boy. At times charming and humorous, at other times profound and heavy, this collection of true stories will linger in your mind long after you close the book.” —Suzanne Woods Fisher, bestselling author of Amish Peace -


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Editor Lorilee Craker is the author of thirteen books, including Money Secrets of the Amish; Anne of Green Gables, My Daughter, and Me; My Journey to Heaven with Marv Besteman; and the New York Times bestseller Through the Story with Lynne Spears. Connect with her at LorileeCraker.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Lorilee Craker presents a selection of writings from Amish and Plain Mennonite women reflecting on heart, home, and hospitality as well as the struggles of life common to many women. Brief and relatable, the essays are grouped by common themes, making it easy to read one or a few at a time. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and sit a spell with Homespun.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Audra Jennings PR and Herald Press. 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 Radio Signal

The Radio Signal
Friedhelm Radandt
(Deep River Books)
ISBN: 978-1940269917
June 2016/256 pages/$15.99
The True Story of a Harrowing Escape and a Love that Arose from a World War

Growing up in bucolic Eastern Pomerania during the early years of World War II, young Friedhelm Radandt has listened with his family on the Volksempfänger (people’s radio) to the many victory news bulletins. At the same time, Elizabeth Jobs and her family have lived in urbane Warsaw as loyal citizens of Poland who cherish their ethnic German heritage.

As the war intensifies, the Radandts continue to hold worship meetings in their home and defy the pressure of local party leaders to send their sons to the notorious school for future Nazi leaders. Meanwhile, across the border, Elizabeth’s family must cope with the death sentence from the Polish resistance movement for her father, Ludwig, the researcher and developer of radio tubes. When both families are driven from their homes, each embark on harrowing, yet thrilling parallel escape routes across war-torn Germany. Amid the darkness and rubble, can the light of love emerge?

The Radio Signal captures the true story of two separate families who share a vibrant faith that imbues their actions with courage and trust. During the war, neither family knew of the other. Neither family knew that their paths would ultimately cross.

“We can hardly imagine what it was like for Christians living in Germany during the Third Reich. But now we don’t have to, because my friend Friedhelm Radandt was there and has given us this extraordinary book about his experiences. He writes about it in such a fresh and compelling way that you almost feel it happened yesterday. And unlike many stories from that terrible time, this one has a happy ending, in which God brings Friedhelm through these trials to America―and eventually to be the president of the King’s College in New York. What a story this is, and I’m so grateful we can now read it for ourselves.”

―Eric Metaxas, NYTimes bestselling author of Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Friedhelm Radandt served as a college president for a quarter of a century, first at Northwestern College in Iowa and then at The King’s College in New York. After arriving from his native Germany as an immigrant, he earned graduate degrees at The University of Chicago and enjoyed a rewarding teaching career at that institution and at Lake Forest College. Radandt never lost the spark for engaging students in discussing ideas and historical events, drawing often on his and his wife’s dramatic and vivid memories of World War II. Now living in the Seattle area in his retirement, Friedhelm has once again returned to his calling as teacher and mentor while imagining his and Elizabeth’s college-age grandchildren as readers. It’s for them and thousands like them he created the captivating memoir, The Radio Signal


MY THOUGHTS

This book brings to light a facet of World War II that I had not previously contemplated beyond the story of Corre Ten Boom and her family as detailed in The Hiding Place: what it was like to be a Christian living in Germany during those horrific years. Friedhelm Radandt brings to life the experiences of his own family as he was growing up as well as those of Elizabeth, the girl who would grow up to become his wife, and her family. The frequent moves, the dashes to bomb shelters, the separation from family members--all are portrayed in eye-opening detail. As this is an autobiographical/biographical rather than fictional work, the writing can be a bit dry at times. Yet the overarching theme of God's faithfulness in the midst of darkness shines throughout the book. Don't miss this inspiring and encouraging account.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Deep River Books and Bring It On Communications. 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.”

As the Tide Comes In

As the Tide Comes In
Cindy Woodsmall &
Erin Woodsmall
(WaterBrook/Multnomah)
ISBN: 978-0735291010
August 2018/352 pages/$14.99
A New York Times best-selling author releases her first southern novel, a Steel Magnolias-meets-Sweet Home Alabama story set on St. Simons Island.

When an unthinkable loss sends Tara Abbott's life spiraling out of control, she journeys from North Carolina to Georgia's St. Simons Island. Although confused and scared, she hopes to find answers about her past - her life before the years of foster care and raising her two half-brothers as a young adult. Will she find steady ground on the island, surrounded by an eccentric-but-kindhearted group of older women called The Glynn Girls and a determined firefighter? Or will the truth splinter what's left of her identity into pieces?


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Cindy Woodsmall is the New York Times and CBA best-selling author of eighteen works of fiction. She’s been featured in national media outlets such as ABC’s Nightline and the Wall Street Journal. Cindy has won numerous awards and has been finalist for the prestigious Christy, Rita, and Carol Awards. Cindy and her husband reside near the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains in Flowery Branch, GA.

Erin Woodsmall is a writer, musician, wife, and mom of three. She has edited, brainstormed, and researched books with Cindy for almost a decade.

Find out more about Cindy and Erin at www.cindywoodsmall.com.


MY THOUGHTS

Cindy Woodsmall steps away from her trademark Amish genre in this tale set deep in the South. This is a tale to read with tissues nearby as Tara's journey is heart-wrenching. I ached for the losses she experienced throughout her life, especially those which caused her to flee to St. Simon's Island. I will admit that I had a hard time connecting with parts of this story. The Glynn Girls were a bit much for me, as were some of Tara's intermittent bouts of confusion. I also found Gavin's determination and endeavors to sell parts of a home he had not legally taken posession of to be rather far-fetched. However, I became more connected to the characters in the last third of the novel and was pleased with the resolution. Overall, I recommend As the Tide Comes In for fans of Woodsmall and Southern fiction.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from WaterBrook/Multnomah Publishing. 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 Patriot Bride

The Patriot Bride
Daughters of the Mayflower, Book 4
Kimberley Woodhouse
(Barbour Publishing)
ISBN: 978-1683226062
July 2018/256 pages/$12.99
Spies Work Together for the Patriot Cause

Faith Jackson is a wealthy widow, friend of George Washington, and staunch supporter of the Patriot cause. Matthew Weber is friends with both Ben Franklin and his son William, who increasingly differ in their political views; and Matthew finds himself privy to information on both sides of the conflict.

When a message needs to get to a spy among the Loyalists, Faith bravely steps up and in turn meets Matthew Weber. Suddenly she believes she could love again. But someone else has his eye on the Faith she portrays in elite social circles. What will Matthew and Faith have to sacrifice for the sake of their fledgling country?


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than fifteen fiction and nonfiction books. A popular speaker and teacher, she’s shared her theme of “Joy Through Trials” with more than half a million people across the country at more than 2,000 events. Kim and her incredible husband of twenty-five-plus years have two adult children. She’s passionate about music and Bible study and loves the gift of story.

You can connect with Kimberley at: kimandkaylawoodhouse.com and www.facebook.com/KimberleyWoodhouseAuthor


MY THOUGHTS

The Patriot Bride provides a fascinating peek into the days leading up to the Revolutionary War. Kimberley Woodhouse brings to life the harrowing atmosphere in Philadelphia as neighbors and even family members align on opposite sides of the political spectrum. Perilous encounters, clandestine meetings, and guarded conversations exemplify the tension and danger that continually hovered. Faith's bravery and pure spunk garnered my admiration, especially as she dealt with her unwanted and obnoxiously persistent pursuer. Rich in historical detail, this captivating tale attests to the determination, honor, and sacrifice of those whose actions birthed a new and independent country.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Barbour Publishing. 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.”


More in the Daughters of the Mayflower series:
The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018) (Title links to my review.)
The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018) (Title links to my review.)
The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)?
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)

A Rumored Fortune

A Rumored Fortune
Joanna Davidson Politano
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800728731
July 2018/416 pages/$15.99
Welcome to Trevelyan Castle, home of the poorest heiress in Victorian England

Tressa Harlowe's father kept his vast fortune hidden somewhere on his estate in the south of England and died suddenly, without telling anyone where he had concealed it. Now Tressa and her ailing mother are left with a mansion and an immense vineyard and no money to run it.

It doesn't take long for a bevy of opportunists to flock to the estate under the guise of offering condolences. Tressa knows what they're really up to. She'll have to work with the rough and rusticated vineyard manager to keep the laborers content without pay and discover the key to finding her father's fortune--before someone else finds it first.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for Lady Jayne Disappears was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at jdpstories.com.


MY THOUGHTS

After enjoying this author's award-winning debut novel, Lady Jayne Disappears, the premise (and the oh-so-intriguing cover!) of her new release immediately caught my eye. While sophomore novels often fail to live up to a sensational debut's status, A Rumored Fortune is an absolute treasure. Joanna Davidson Politano has crafted a tale which, even if taken only at face value, captivates the reader with its vivid ambience and credibly depicted characters. But the deeper beauty and spiritual symbolism woven throughout this story truly make it a masterpiece. Excerpts from a "notebook of a viticulturist" which precede each chapter not only enhance the setting but provide allegorical wisdom. As tempting as it is to excerpt or identify specific favorite moments, I dare not rob other readers of the joy of gleaning these nuggets for themselves. I'm still reflecting on this novel, particularly a specific, absolutely brilliantly woven, thread. A Rumored Fortune will be placed on my keeper shelf, and I fully expect it to garner multiple awards. I'm already eagerly anticipating more from this gifted author.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Baker/Revell Publishing. I was not required to write a 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.”

Called to Protect

Called to Protect
Blue Justice, Book 2
Lynette Eason
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800727031
July 2018/320 pages/$15.99
She'll have to draw on all of her resources to crack the case--and guard her heart.

After being dumped by her fiancé, Chloe St. John has decided that the only male she likes is her K-9 German shepherd partner, Hank. But being over the whole romance thing has perks--like giving full attention to her job. Attention she's definitely going to need because a case of human trafficking with connections to her missing cousin just landed in her lap.

Deputy US Marshall Blake MacCallum is in a race against the clock to rescue his kidnapped daughter when Chloe and Hank are asked to be a part of the task force assembled to bring down the traffickers. Chloe finds herself attracted to the silent, suffering man. But can she trust him? And can Blake trust himself around this firecracker of a woman?

Buckle in. This fast and furious ride will have your heart pumping from the very start.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of Oath of Honor and Called to Protect, as well as the Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and the Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master's degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children. Learn more at lynetteeason.com.


MY THOUGHTS

I know to take a deep breath when opening a Lynette Eason suspense because it will likely have to last me through the entire book. That turned out to be an understatement with the latest release from this gifted author. Called to Protect teems with danger and heartbreak as Eason delves into the heartbreaking reality of human trafficking, making it personal for the law enforcement officers who fight for justice each day. Not a moment is wasted in this heartpounding tale that riveted my attention from the opening prologue until the final sentence. Non-stop action, richly developed characters so real you might pass them on your local street, and an underlying romance capture the mind and heart in this powerful story. Add Called to Protect to your must-read list.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Baker/Bethany House Publishing. I was not required to write a 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.”


BLUE JUSTICE - CLICK THE COVER FOR MY REVIEW OF BOOK 1!

ACFW New Releases - August 2018

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


Contemporary Romance:

Out of Their Element by Angela Breidenbach, Robin Lee Hatcher, Vickie McDonough, and Deborah Raney -- They are totally out of their element! Four mismatched couples find unexpected romance. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

The Redemption Road by Christa MacDonald -- As Alex awaits retribution, he means to keep Annie safe at any cost, but she knows it’s redemption he needs and she’ll pay any price for him to find it. (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Scarlet Tears by Laura Hervey -- Caught in a romantic triangle with her brother’s best friend and a charming pastor, former call girl Carly Lawrence struggles to start a new life. (Contemporary Romance from Alabaster Box Press)

Historical Romance:

Rebecca’s Legacy by Betty Thomason Owens -- After a threat against her family, a spoiled heiress is sent to the country to work on her aunt’s produce farm and finds love. (Historical Romance from Write Integrity Press)

The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse -- Faith Jackson is a wealthy widow, friend of George Washington, and staunch supporter of the Patriot cause. Matthew Weber is friends with both Ben Franklin and his son William, who increasingly differ in their political views; and Matthew finds himself privy to information on both sides of the conflict. When a message needs to get to a spy among the Loyalists, Faith bravely steps up and in turn meets Matthew Weber. Suddenly she believes she could love again. But someone else has his eye on the Faith she portrays in elite social circles. What will Matthew and Faith have to sacrifice for the sake of their fledgling country? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Cozy Mystery:

Deadly Harvest by Marissa Shrock -- Georgia’s biggest challenge in the farming town of Wildcat Springs, Indiana, is figuring out how to win Evan Beckworth’s heart. Until the day she discovers the body of a former student in the woods. When she starts to suspect this wasn’t an accident, memories stir of her father’s murder nine years earlier. A murder never solved. As Georgia works with the sheriff's department’s newest detective, Cal Perkins, she finds her heart slipping into his hands. But her head is pummeled with conflicting evidence and anonymous threats of severe consequences if she digs any deeper. In the end, Georgia faces a paralyzing choice. Ignore the dark secrets inside the family and friends who surround her or be willing to risk her own life to uncover the truth. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)

Unknown Enemy by Janet Sketchley -- A young woman with a traumatic past must discover the truth about who's playing mind games with the Green Dory Inn's owner. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

Hiding in Plain Sight by Mary Ellis -- When a Charleston PI rents a room above an Italian restaurant owned by a handsome chef, she lands in the middle of a family feud with robbery, arson and murder for the daily specials. (Romantic Suspense from Severn House Publishers LTD)

Wildfire by Gayla K. Hiss -- A female wildfire scientist and a firefighter team up to solve the mystery behind the outbreak of wildfires in the Rockies and find themselves at the center of a firestorm. (Romantic Suspense from Mountain Brook Ink)

Amish Country Ambush by Dana R. Lynn -- A police officer and a dispatcher travel deep into Amish country to rescue her nephew and to escape a killer. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Imperfect Promises by Elizabeth Noyes -- When a homegrown terrorist threatens the woman he loves, former Special Forces soldier Jonas Cameron calls on old friends to help him eliminate the danger. (Romantic Suspense from Write Integrity Press)

Cold Fear by Susan Sleeman -- When a sniper’s ex-girlfriend, a musician, is framed for murder during her summer tour, he jumps to defend her from an imminent arrest and a killer’s deadly rage. But the evidence against her stacks higher as three bodies are found with her name tattooed on their wrist. (Romantic Suspense from Edge of Your Seat Books, Inc.)

Cold Case Cover-Up by Virginia Vaughan -- The first thrilling Covert Operatives tale An infant is believed to have been murdered thirty years ago—but investigative journalist Dana Lang is convinced she’s that baby. Now someone’s willing to kill to stop her investigation. And only secretive deputy Quinn Dawson, whose grandfather may have faked Dana’s death to protect her, can keep her safe. But a killer’s dead set on burying the past—and them—for good. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Thriller/Suspense:

Pretense by John Di Frances -- A dark cloud hangs over Europe after the brutal murders of two heads of state just days apart. A diabolical plot appears to stretch westward to the United States, implicating the CIA. But do the facts reflect reality or is there a sinister force working behind the scenes to destabilize Europe and NATO? The team of investigators led by Interpol’s Marek Frakas, 'The Wolf,' moves quickly to track the perpetrators and uncover the identity of the unseen mastermind behind the conspiracy. This cadre includes the lovely Adrianna, a young forensic weapons expert who can hold her own on the male-dominated international team of investigators. Together they seek to understand reality versus the shattered mirror-like reflections meant to obfuscate the truth and shroud the mastermind’s identity and ultimate purpose. (Political Thriller from Reliance Books Publishing, LLC)

Thirst of Steel by Ronie Kendig -- Dismantled centuries ago, the sword of Goliath is still rumored to thirst for its enemies' blood. Cole "Tox" Russell wants only to put the dangers of his past behind him and begin his new life with Haven Cortes. First, though, he's called to complete a final mission: retrieve the sword and destroy the deadly Arrow & Flame Order. The AFO, however, is determined to reunite the sword. With the Wraith team slowly being torn apart, things worsen when Mercy Maddox, a new operative, emerges with the stunning news that the artifact is tied to a string of unsolved serial murders. Tox and the others are forced to set aside fear and anger to target the true enemy. No matter the cost, Wraith must destroy the AFO . . . or join them in the flames. (Military Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])