Merry Humbug Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker

With Merry Humbug Christmas you get Two Tales of Holiday Romance for the price of one!
I am swirling the ice in my dairy free eggnog as I ponder the simple genius of it all.

In Once Upon a Jingle Bell we meet friends Joss Snow and Reese Prendergrass. They usually spend Christmas together--not celebrating. They both have their reasons for avoiding the holiday-- good ones-- but this year is different. Reese receives a marriage proposal which she joyfully accepts-- along with an invitation to her fiance's family lodge on Sugarloaf Mountain. So Joss takes matters into her own hands and books a "Bah Humbug" cruise to Mexican ports of call until the whole fa la la holiday is over... of course things go wonderfully awry, romance ensues, and new friends help heal old wounds.

In It Came Upon a Midnight Deer, Reese's visit to the future in-laws is not exactly a trip to Candy Land unless the destination is the licorice swamp... Fiance Damian Palmer's family is loud and energetic, with traditions galore, but Reece gets off on the wrong foot on more than one occasion, which leaves her with some yuletide concerns. Note: I think we'd all like to give being the Palmers a try...

Well, all I have to say is, the folks at B&H Books and author Sandra Bricker really know how to bless the hopeless Christmas romantic. I urge all you Lifetime Christmas addicts to put down the remote and pick up Merry Humbug Christmas. Okay, record the Lifetime movies, then get cozy and settle in for a long winter's read!

More information about Sandra Bricker and Merry Humbug Christmas please continue:

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Merry Humbug Christmas

B&H Books (October 15, 2013)

by

Sandra D. Bricker


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

The author says that it was her 8th novel that opened the door to finding her way as a writer. "I'm a Christian woman, first and foremost," she says. "So it was a bit of a dream-come-true when Summerside Press chose me as one of two authors to launch the Love Finds You line."


Sandie's real-life role as cancer survivor has parlayed into her steadfast commitment to raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. Spearheading a series of devotionals for Summerside Press (such as the popular His Grace is Sufficient...Decaf is Not), the author has stipulated that a portion of each contributor's proceeds will go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.


   
"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with raising funds for my pet projects ... and still pursue my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"


And one of the author's pet projects is animal rescue, evidenced by the special bond she has created with one particular formerly-abandoned puppy -- a red-haired collie with "killer brown eyes and the heart of the class clown."

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Merry Humbug Christmas features two holiday romance novellas from hilarious and heartwarming author Sandra D. Bricker. -- the perfect gift to yourself or someone else at this most wonderfully stressful time of year.

 In "Once Upon a Jingle Bell," A Bah! Humbug cruise to the Mexican Riviera is Joss Snow’s answer to this year’s quest to avoid the holidays completely; at least until she’s rebooked on a different kind of cruise altogether. Candy canes, holly wreaths, reindeer and ornaments seem to be stalking her on the 12 Days of Christmas holiday cruise extravaganza. An escape back to land is her only goal . . . until she meets a kindred spirit in rugged Irishman Patrick Brenneman, and then the game is on! Avoid Christmas festivities at all costs . . . except maybe for that one stop under the mistletoe.

In "It Came Upon a Midnight Deer," Reese’s guilt over abandoning best friend Joss on their holiday tradition of avoiding all things Christmas is trumped by the joy of her recent engagement. Meeting Damian’s family for the first time on idyllic Sugarloaf Mountain is about as far from that Bah! Humbug cruise as she can get, and Reese can hardly wait to get there. But from the moment they hit that deer in the road just two miles from the cabin, everything seems to go wrong. There are no drummers drumming or pipers piping this particular year! And once she sets her future in-laws’ family cabin ablaze, she’s pretty sure there won’t be even ONE golden ring in her future.



If you would like to read the first chapter of Merry Humbug Christmas, go HERE.

Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter

Aloha Rose is part of the Quilts of Love series by Abbingdon Fiction. This one is a contemporary romance which follows a young woman's search for her birth family, taking her to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.

Laney Carrigan  suffers from abandonment and trust issues. She was adopted by a loving couple after her birth mother left her on their doorstep, but since her adoptive mother's death and father's remarriage, she's feeling like a ship that has lost its mooring. It is time for her to search for her "roots".

Kai Barnes, Laney's love interest, is a complicated hero who suffers from post traumatic stress syndrome, and fears loving almost as much as Laney fears trusting. 

I really enjoyed this foray into Hawaiian culture.  I have long admired the Hawaiian tradition of quilting involving gorgeous applique and liked how the "Aloha Rose" quilt was used in the story to help Laney find her family. The symbolism was really special! 

Please read on for more information about Aloha Rose and author Lisa Carter!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Aloha Rose

Abingdon Press (November 19, 2013)

by

Lisa Carter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

A word from the author:

I am a wife and mother. My husband and I have two daughters and make our home in the beautiful state of North Carolina.

I am a teacher. With a Master’s degree in history, I have taught at the university, high school and middle school levels. After years of church involvement as a soloist, choir member and worship leader, I also teach music.

I am a writer. Delighted by the rhythm and musicality of words, I have been writing since childhood. In 2001, I won the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Story Writing Contest that re-ignited a lifelong love of writing.

I am on a journey of faith. My ultimate desire through my life and my writing is to proclaim the truth of God’s Word, His redeeming love as seen in the life of Jesus Christ and to help others know for themselves this great, awesome God of all comfort and wisdom. He is enough for every need.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Laney Carrigan sets out to find her birth family, her only clue is the Hawaiian quilt—a red rose snowflake appliquéd on a white background—in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island and battling fears of rejection, Laney begins a painstaking journey toward her true heritage. Kai Barnes, however, is determined to protect the people he’s come to regard as family. He thinks Laney is nothing more than a gold digger and blocks every move she makes toward her Hawaiian family. As their conflict escalates, it puts at risk the one thing that Kai and Laney both want most—a family.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Aloha Rose, go HERE.

Critical Reaction by Todd M. Johnson

If you like nail-biting legal suspense novels you will love Critical Reaction by Todd M. Johnson. Mr. Johnson is an expert in the legal field, and in the tradition of John Grisham, crafts his novels with details that require a vast knowledge of the law, and a rip-roaring good story to keep you turning the pages.

There is a nuclear explosion. A cover-up. A young attorney named Emily Hart takes the case to help her friend, Kieran, from college.  She needs assistance and turns to Ryan, her father, an experienced trial lawyer. But they haven't been close since her mother's cancer diagnosis and subsequent death.  Ryan sees this as an opportunity to build a bridge back into Emily's life even though Kieran's case seems to be hopeless.

As with all things that are bad in this world, dark forces are at work, and the deeper you go-- like a wound that gets infected-- the uglier things become.

I applaud Todd Johnson for using his expertise and talent to shine the light on "the evil that men do" but shows, through his characters, that courage and faith can prevail-- even when all hope is lost.

I would love for everyone to read Critical Reaction.

Please check out the following information provided by the publisher, Bethany House--one of the best!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Critical Reaction

Bethany House Publishers (November 19, 2013)

by

Todd M. Johnson


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Todd M. Johnson has practiced as an attorney for over 30 years, specializing as a trial lawyer. Todd's career experience blends with his passion for writing in his novels published through Bethany House.


A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Minnesota Law School, he also taught for two years as an adjunct professor of International Law, and served as a US diplomat in Hong Kong.


The Deposit Slip, Mr. Johnson's first novel, debuted in 2012.  Todd's second novel, Critical Reaction, will be released in November 2013.


Todd lives outside Minneapolis, Minnesota, with his wife Cathy and children Ian and Libby.



ABOUT THE BOOK

After decades of turning out plutonium for the arms race, the Hanford Nuclear Facility has long been shuttered, though its deadly legacy cannot be fully contained. The men who guard the facility from sabotage or monitor its buildings for radiation leaks are told the risks are under control. They believe it, until the worst happens: a thunderous explosion in the dead of night.


Two workers, lifer Poppy Martin and new hire Kieran Mullaney, believe themselves lucky to survive the blast. But as the debris is cleared, they discover their safety is not assured. Dead ends and closed doors halt their efforts to discover what really happened--and what radiation may have poisoned them. When stalling and threats force them into the hands of experienced trial lawyer Ryan Hart, they learn that theirs is no ordinary lawsuit. There is something still hidden in the desert of eastern Washington, and someone is willing to go to extreme lengths to make sure it never sees the light of day.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Critical Reaction, go HERE.

Derailed by Neta Jackson and Dave Jackson

"He has shown thee O man, what is good and what the Lord requires of thee, to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God." Micah 6:8

Harry and Estelle Bentley are a semi-retired, newly married Christian couple, who just want to enjoy their approaching golden years together. Harry's thirteen year old grandson, Deshawn, lives with them because Rodney, his estranged son, is in prison for drug related crimes. When Rodney is released from prison he needs a place to stay... but can they trust him to stay clean and what kind of influence will he have on Deshawn?

Derailed features a stint with Harry taking up his police detective's badge to go undercover on a train posing as a blind man, which is wonderful-- but "derailed" is also a metaphor for life and the unexpected twists and turns it can take. I loved Harry and Estelle's relationship. I imagine theirs might be a bit like the authors, Neta and Dave Jackson's. I would like to think so.

Derailed is the second in the Windy City Neighbors series.
For more information about Derailed, please read on.

Bless you.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Derailed

Worthy Publishing (October 8, 2013)


by

Dave and Neta Jackson


ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

As a husband/wife writing team, we are enthusiastic about books, kids, walking with God, gospel music, and each other! Together we are the authors or coauthors of over 120 books. (You can see our Publication Record by clicking HERE.) In addition to writing several books about Christian community, we have been privileged to coauthor numerous books with expert resource people on a variety of topics from racial reconciliation to medical ethics to ministry to kids in gangs.


But over the years the we have especially enjoyed writing for children and young people! This includes our award-winning TRAILBLAZER series, historical fiction about great Christian heroes and heroines for young people ages 8-12, and the four-volume HERO TALES: A Family Treasury of True Stories from the Lives of Great Christians, and the companion book, Heroes in Black History.


Somewhere along the way, our own children grew up! Son Julian is Director of Experience Design for the Alder Planetarium in Chicago where he “provides the experience of exploring space” for visitors. He has two sons, Liam Isaac and Elijah David. Daughter Rachel graduated from Eastern Mennonite University and after working in the field of rape-crisis prevention went on to earn a Masters Degree in counseling from the University of Illinois. She is now a counselor at “Uni High School” in Champaign, Illinois. She is the loving mother of Havah Noelle (our first grandchild!) and Noah Zion, our youngest grandchild. The Jackson family also includes a Cambodian foster daughter, Samen Sang, who has four children.


We live in Evanston, Illinois, where for twenty-seven years we were part of Reba Place Church, a Christian church community. We are now members of a multi-racial congregation in the Chicago area.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Forced to give up his hard-earned retirement, Harry Bentley goes back to work as a detective. Receiving a bizarre undercover assignment that sends him across the country by train. Things suddenly go awry when it appears one of his new neighbors may be part of a smuggling ring and suspicion rises about his own son’s involvement in a major drug cartel.
The second in the Windy City Neighbors series, Derailed is a contemporary, and often humorous, tale in an urban setting, featuring ordinary people wrestling with the spiritual and practical issues of real life. Intersecting with Grounded (book one), the Jacksons employ their innovative storytelling technique of “parallel novels.” Though each book follows its own drama and story arc, the characters’ lives become intertwined and affect one another. Derailed transports you to Beecham Street—a typical, isolated American neighborhood . . . until hope moves in.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Derailed, go HERE.

Paige Rewritten by Erynn Mangum

Paige Rewritten is a contemporary look into church life through the eyes of Paige Alder, a twenty something who is trying to live a normal life as a single Christian woman.

Paige comes from a good American family that has managed to coast along with minimal drama-- until her younger sister, Preslee, (what kind of name is that?) breaks her parents heart by running off with a band as a kind of live-in groupie.

Paige's own heart was broken by her first love, Luke, around the same time, and like a bad penny, he resurfaces...and keeps popping up throughout the book. Luke is also her best friend's brother, so it's hard to keep him from infiltrating her thoughts, etc.

The book is written in the first person in a humorous style that has an honest resonance. I felt that many young adult groups contain one or two "Paiges" who desire to find Mr. Right, but inevitably end up kissing some Mr. Wrongs along the way.

I think that this book would encourage college age young women who, like Paige, want to live an authentic and meaningful life.

To find out more about Paige Rewritten and author Erynn Mangum please continue.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Paige Rewritten

NavPress (October 8, 2013)

by

Erynn Mangum


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A few things about her:


So, if we were having this conversation in person, we would probably be hanging out at Starbucks or one of the cute coffeehouses in town. I’m nuts about all things coffee, I’m crazy about all things pink and girly, and I love, love, love the Food Network! I’m married to my best friend and the most amazing guy ever, Jon. He is amiable toward coffee, does not like anything pink or girly and tolerates the Food Network. So, we make a good match! In July 2010, we became parents to one of the funniest, cutest, sweetest little guys in the whole world (and nope, we aren’t biased at all!), our Nater-Tot, who is legally known as Nathan. Most days, I’m cleaning up messes, making goofy faces, trying to fit some writing in, and just LOVING the life that God has given me!


ABOUT THE BOOK

Paige Alder is in a really good place. She’s dating nice guy Tyler. Her boss has offered her a raise. Her walk with God is strong. Life is great—and that’s when things start to change.


First, the youth pastor at church keeps asking Paige to work with him full-time. Then her sister shows up newly engaged and wanting to reconnect, even though they haven’t spoken in years. And now former boyfriend Luke has come back into her life. How is Paige supposed to know what the right decisions are?


This warm and humorous second book in the Paige Alder series will help young girls work through important issues, such as forgiving others and obeying God.




If you would like to read the first chapter of Paige Rewritten, go HERE

 

Traces of Mercy by Michael Landon Jr. & Cindy Kelley

"True courage is knowing not when to take a life, but when to spare one." J R.R. Tolkien

The Civil War ends, a confederate sniper is released from prison, and a young woman with amnesia finds herself in St. Louis, Missouri. The political climate is volatile, especially in Missouri, which was a divided state.

The heroine of Traces of Mercy is in a heap of trouble. She goes by the name Mercy, taken from a medal she wore around her neck. Blessed with beauty and an innocent charm, all she wants is to find out who she is. She falls in love with the city's most eligible bachelor who is so enamored with her that he is willing to accept all that she is-- past, present, and future... or so it seems...

I won't spoil it by giving any more details about the book, because I really hope everyone has a chance to read Traces of Mercy. Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley have a writing partnership made in Heaven (I think), and I can't wait for the next book to come out.

Please read the information provided by publisher David C Cook.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Traces of Mercy

David C. Cook (October 1, 2013)

by

Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michael Landon Jr., son of television legend Michael Landon, is an award-winning storyteller, first in television and film, and now in books. His print works include One More Sunrise co-written with Tracie Peterson.


****

Cindy Kelley is the co-author of the novel The Silent Gift, and Traces of Mercy. Her career as a screenwriter with long-time writing partner, Michael Landon, Jr., began with the adaptation of Margery Williams’ classic story, The Velveteen Rabbit, which had a theatrical release. Several television movies followed, most notably Love Comes Softly, (based on Janette Oke’s novel) which won a CAMIE Award and the Epiphany Prize for Movie Guide’s most inspirational television movie of 2003. Cindy and her husband, Jim, make their home in the Southwest; have three adorable grandchildren and four big dogs who rule the house.




ABOUT THE BOOK

From Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley, authors of The Silent Gift and creators of the hit television film Love Comes Softly, comes an exciting historical romance set in post-Civil War, and filled with suspense and faith-building values.


At the war’s end, a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. Waking with amnesia, she takes the name Mercy and wants more than anything to find out the truth of her past. But then a handsome stranger arrives, who may hold the key to everything she has forgotten. What he knows could devastate her future, and even end her life.


Written by two proven storytellers, Traces of Mercy is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, prairie-based tales, or just a good romance.



If you'd like to read the first chapter of Traces of Mercy, go
HERE.

The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman

The Christmas Quilt is a story rich in the stuff of life. It fittingly begins with the scripture from Galatians which lists the fruit of the Spirit. The first fruit is love and that is really the heart of this story.

Annie is a nurse who has it all together and is pregnant with her first child. She is married to Samuel who is ten years older and suffered the loss of his first wife and child. He has managed to come through  his heartache stronger and wiser. They are a match made in Heaven.  

Leah, her best friend and sister-in-law is also a young wife, pregnant with twins and struggling with emotions, mood swings, and really swollen feet. She is married to Annie's brother-- a good man overall, but in a bit lacking in the understanding department. Leah's fear and insecurity are the enemies that threaten her ability to trust Adam and his love for her.

The main characters in The Christmas Quilt are Amish, and I loved the glimpse into the Amish life: Vanetta Chapman made even the labor intensive task of doing the laundry seem beautiful and I love how the Amish rally around one another when help is needed. 

The Christmas Quilt is another truly wonderful book in the Quilts of Love series.

Please read on for more from Abingdon Press. 

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

The Christmas Quilt

Abingdon Press (October 15, 2013)

by

Vannetta Chapman

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

A Word From The Author:

I hold a BA and MA degree in English, and I am proud to be represented by Mary Sue Seymour, AAR. I have published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, and have received over two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups.  I am honored to be a member of Romance Writers of America, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Faith Hope and Love.

I live and teach in the Texas hill country with my husband, cats, and a rather large herd of deer. Our four children have flown the nest; however, we are fortunate that they all live close enough to visit.

I have always felt that my faith was at the very center of who and what I am, and I am thrilled beyond words to be able to now write about something that is so near to my heart. At various times I have served as a pianist, teacher, church secretary, and worship team member. While living in the Dallas area, I served as an adjunct professor of English Literature at Dallas Baptist University. When we moved to a small town in Central Texas, I continued teaching for a few years, but I now write full-time and I play the keyboard in our church’s praise band.

My grandfather was born in Albion, Pennsylvania, and I am currently researching whether I might have Amish roots.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself delivering the buggy to her brother Adam. Annie’s sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Christmas Quilt, go HERE.

 

Flip Flop by Wendy Lawton

On the surface Wendy Lawton's book, Flip Flop appears to be a fun, teeny bopper novel and it is. But it is so much more. Briana and Chickie are best friends who live across the street from one another in a nice, older neighborhood in rural California. Bree's father travels a lot for his job, and as far back as she can remember has had a drinking problem. In order to keep the "family business" private Bree has hung out exclusively at Chickie's relatively normal home. When the reality home improvement show Flip Flop chooses the friends for an episode, Bree fears that her secret will be exposed.

Wendy Lawton creates wonderful three dimensional characters that are so likable that I wanted more! She handled the problem of alcohol abuse with a deftness that could, I believe, actually help anyone who has suffered from its fallout. At one point in the story I didn't even realize that I was crying as I was reminded of some difficult times in my past. Tears of hope that things can change.

I would love to see this book on every tween-to-grandma's book shelf.

Flip Flop is book two of the Real TV series which is available on Amazon at bargain prices!

A Plain Disappearance by Amanda Flower

                               Sleigh Ride Turns into Discovery of Amish Girl's Body

Chloe Humphrey, Englisher, and Timothy Troyer, former member of the Amish community were out for a picturesque Christmassy  ride in Timothy's grandfathers buggy when Mabel, Timothy's dog, discovers a frozen arm sticking out of the snow. Timothy recognizes the body as belonging to Katie Lambright. The Lambrights and the Troyers relationship has been strained ever since he and his sister Becky left the Amish way of life. It appears that the discovery will not help mend any fences...

 I began reading this book en route to St. Louis from Boston where I was visiting family. I enjoyed being transported to the Ohio Amish Country while I was waiting to be transported back to my own home. With well drawn characters to keep me company, an intriguing mystery, and the visions of sugar plums, yule logs, and miniature whoopie pies dancing around in my head-- the Amish are big foodies-- I'm sure that I was one of the happier travelers in the Pittsburgh airport. I honestly didn't mind the hour and a half delay.

A Plain Disappearance is Amanda Flower's third Amish mystery.
B&H Publishing Group have provided more information about this book. (Happy Reading!!)

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

A Plain Disappearance

B&H Books (September 1, 2013)


by

Amanda Flower


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amanda Flower, an Agatha-nominated mystery author, started her writing career in elementary school when she read a story she wrote to her sixth grade class and had the class in stitches with her description of being stuck on the top of a Ferris wheel. She knew at that moment she’d found her calling of making people laugh with her words. Her debut mystery, Maid of Murder, was an Agatha Award Nominee for Best First Novel. Amanda is an academic librarian for a small college near Cleveland.




ABOUT THE BOOK

USA Today recently hailed award-nominated author Amanda Flower for A Plain Death, calling it “the first Amish rom-com . . . bring on the next one!” As the enthusiastic reviews continue to mount, she’s back with her third Appleseed Creek mystery, A Plain Disappearance.


It’s Christmastime in Amish Country, and Chloe Humphrey has begun settling into her life in Appleseed Creek excited to see where her new relationship with Timothy Troyer will lead. Unfortunately it leads to murder when the couple discovers the body of Amish teenager Katie Lambright while on their first date.


Near the scene there is evidence that Timothy’s friend and auto mechanic Billy Thorpe is involved with the crime. The police reveal Billy is not really who he said he was and has been living the last decade in Knox County under a stolen alias. Now, Chloe and Timothy must find Billy, bring him to justice, or prove his innocence.


If you would like to read the first chapter of >A Plain Disappearance, go HERE.

Dark Justice by Brandilyn Collins

Fans of thriller suspense fasten your seat belts because Brandilyn Collins is back with another incredible ride that will have you rounding the fiction world at breakneck speed.

Hannah Shire is your average middle aged widow who cares for her quirky mother who suffers from dementia. On their way home from a week end holiday she innocently stops to help an accident victim which inadvertently sets off a sequence of high stakes events that will force them to go on the run.

Superb storytelling, wonderful characters, and nail biting suspense await-- I seriously hope you to give Dark Justice a whirl. I promise--you won't be able to put it down!

Please read on for much more from Brandilyn Collins and the cool people from B&H Books!
Warning: If you read the first chapter, you will not rest until you get a copy for yourself (or your library)...

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Dark Justice

B&H Books (October 1, 2013)

by

Brandilyn Collins


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense®. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline "Don't forget to b r e a t h e . . ."®  Brandilyn's first book, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows. Brandilyn's awards for her novels include the ACFW Carol Award (three times), Inspirational Readers' Choice, and Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice.


Brandilyn is also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons). The Writer magazine named Getting into Character one of the best books on writing published in 2002.


When she's not writing, Brandilyn can be found teaching the craft of fiction at writers' conferences.


ABOUT THE BOOK

If I’d had any idea what those words would mean to me, to my mother and daughter, I’d have fled California without looking back.


While driving a rural road, Hannah Shire and her aging mother, who suffers from dementia, stop to help a man at the scene of a car accident. The man whispers mysterious words in Hannah’s ear. Soon people want to kill Hannah and her mother for what they “know.” Even law enforcement may be involved.


The two women must flee for their lives. But how does Hannah hide her confused mother? Carol just wants to listen to her pop music, wear her favorite purple hat, and go home. And if they turn to Hannah’s twentyseven- year-old daughter, Emily, for help, will she fall into danger as well?


Pressed on all sides, Hannah must keep all three generations of women in her family alive. Only then does she learn the threat is not just to her loved ones, but the entire country . . .


If you'd like to read the first chapter of Dark Justice, HERE.

The Nurse's Secret Suitor by Cheryl Wyatt

I really appreciate the folks at Harlequin for keeping the printing presses churning with their Love Inspired line of "Heartwarming Inspirational Romance". They give the romantics among us the option of wholesome love stories with contemporary characters-- who may or may not be praying for a relationship-- but are often surprised to find that God's choice is what their hearts have been searching for all along.

Cheryl Wyatt's military/medical romance stories fit the bill perfectly.  The romantic games begin with fun characters like Kate Dalton, trauma nurse, and Caleb Landis, army medic (who is impersonating a Zorro inspired character to woo her). Kate is intrigued by the stranger in disguise but finds herself falling for the real guy (Caleb) at the same time...

I give Cheryl kudos for daring to step into the realm of a modern version of a masked hero who wins the heart of the battle-scarred former combat nurse. Yeah, she went there--and I'm so glad she did!

For more information about The Nurse's Secret Suitor and Cheryl Wyatt, please read on!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

The Nurse's Secret Suitor

Love Inspired (October 1, 2013)


by

Cheryl Wyatt


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Not even Cheryl Wyatt’s closest friends would dream that this sweet, shy intercessor plots mayhem during announcements at church. She is a Registered Nurse turned stay-at-home-mom, wife and writer who loves Jesus with all of her heart.


Joyful chaos rules her home, and she delights in the stealth moments God gives her to write. She stays active in her church and in her laundry room. She is convinced that having been born on a Naval base on Valentines Day destined her to write Inspirational Military Romance.


Cheryl loves to laugh and to make others laugh, so she often plans comedic moments for her defenseless characters in spite of their grumbling. She says it’s payback for when they refuse to obey the plots she’s set out before them.


Prior to publication, six of Cheryl’s manuscripts placed in ten RWA Contests. Two of Cheryl’s stories also placed First in ACFW’s Noble Theme Contest 2005 (Contemporary Romance Category), as well as ACFW‘s Genesis Contest 2006 (Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Category).


She currently writes for Love Inspired. Her Wings of Refuge Series, about a team of USAF Pararescue Jumpers and the ladies who capture their hearts, can be purchased anywhere books are sold.


ABOUT THE BOOK

A Strong-Willed Heart
Trauma nurse Kate Dalton can handle any challenge—except love. The combat veteran dreams of settling down, but heartbreak is one risk she won't take. Then a chance encounter opens her heart to a masked stranger…who might not be a stranger after all! Caleb Landis, the army medic behind the disguise, has always admired Kate, even though she only saw him as her best friend's brother. What will it take for Kate to discard her fears and discover the man she's always hoped to unmask?
Eagle Point Emergency:  Saving lives—and losing their hearts— in a small Illinois town


If you would like to read the first chapter of The Nurse's Secret Suitor, go HERE.

Made to Last by Melissa Tagg

Miranda Woodruff is the darling of home improvement shows. She is (if you will) the Rachael Ray of renovations. But the spunky do- it- yourself girl's show has started to fizzle which prompts the producer to introduce the TV audience to  her husband whom she refers to as the guy who taught her everything she knows about building. There's just one problem--the "husband" split the scene three years ago and they never were actually married.

Suddenly Miranda's world gets more complicated as her husband for hire, Blaze, and disgraced reporter, Matthew, enter her life. As with every good story the truth must be revealed. Will it cost Miranda her career or are the stakes much higher?

Made to Last is Melissa Tagg's debut novel-- a fun read with lots of heart. I look forward to more.
Please read on for more about Made to Last!!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Made to Last

Bethany House Publishers (September 15, 2013)

by

Melissa Tagg


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word From The Author:

I’m a former reporter turned author who loves all things funny and romancey. My debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, releases from Bethany House in September 2013. In addition to my nonprofit day job, I’m also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for novelists.

It all started when my dad, at the ripe old age of sixteen, picked up my mom up for their first date. She was thirteen. Thirteen!* Dad drove a cherry red car up the lane to my grandparents big ol’ green house and honked his horn…whereupon Mom jumped out of the apple tree she’d been waiting in and off they went…fishing. True story. (I’d give more details, but I’m saving it for a novella I plan to entitle Two Leaves. Mom, I really hope you read this.)


Four years of college, a few trips abroad and a stint as a reporter later, that dream is soon to be a reality. My debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, is now out from Bethany House. Book two, Here to Stay, comes out on May 1, 2014.


In between writing and staring out the window brainstorming, I also work as a grant-writer at one of Iowa’s largest private nonprofits and serve as the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for novelists founded by Susan May Warren.


And I love, love, love talking about finding our purpose and identity in Christ. (And well, okay, food, old movies, boots and scarves, my awesome nephew Ollie, and, fine, Tim Tebow, too.)


ABOUT THE BOOK

Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that's how it looks when she's starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she'll do anything to boost ratings and save her show--even if it means pretending to be married to a man who's definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago.


When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda's every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth--and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she's built come crashing down just as she's found a love to last?


If you'd like to read the first chapter of Made to Last, go HERE.

Raw Edges by Sandra D. Bricker

The Quilts of Love Series, published by Abingdon Fiction is a series with a common thread (sorry). Great writing, top notch authors, and creative story lines that cross the boundaries of time offer readers an experience that pours a balm of hope into the weary, careworn, soul. That is what happens every time I read a Quilts of Love selection.

Grayson McDonough is the widowed father of nine year old Sadie. At her behest, he finds himself at  an ovarian support group meeting (the cancer that killed his wife) where he makes the acquaintance of the lovely cancer survivor and Aquarium worker, Annabelle Curtis. The story is simple in many ways-- somewhat reminiscent of Sleepless in Seattle, which is a wonderful thing-- but done with fresh and original characters. What could be better?

Sandra Bricker writes with depth and humor. I loved that she created journal entries for Sadie written by Jenna, Sadie's mother, which were like love letters with instructions and prayers on life and living after she "goes away".

Raw Edges tugged at my heart strings from the very first page and didn't let go until some time after the end. This is one of those books that lingers...

Please read on for more information about Raw Edges. Oh, and I must warn you, that if you watch the book trailer, you will be running for the Kleenex box (which I never have handy)... just sayin'.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Raw Edge

Abingdon Press (September 17, 2013)

by

Sandra D. Bricker


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

The Big 5-OH! was released by Abingdon Press in the Spring of 2010, and the novel was very well-received, garnering a couple of nibbles from Hollywood.

Always the Baker, Never the Bride was released by Abingdon Press in September 2010. With its phenomenal reviews, the novel spawned a series of three more books based on the popular cast of characters at The Tanglewood Inn, a wedding destination hotel in historic Roswell, Georgia. The series cemented Sandie's spot in publishing as a flagship author of Laugh-Out-Loud romantic comedy for the inspirational market.

"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"  

ABOUT THE BOOK

Grayson McDonough has no use for teal ribbons, 5k runs, or ovarian cancer support groups now that his beautiful wife Jenna is gone. But their nine-year-old daughter Sadie seems to need the connection. When Annabelle Curtis, the beautiful cancer survivor organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group, begins to bring out the silly and fun side of his precious daughter again, Gray must set aside his own grief to support the healing of Sadie’s young heart. But is there hope for Gray’s heart too along the way?


If you would like to read the first chapter of Raw Edge, go HERE.



Watch the book trailer:

Fired Up by Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy writes historical fiction with a healthy dose of humor thrown in for good measure. Just looking at the cover lets you know that laughter will follow, and who doesn't need something to smile about?

Fired Up is the 2nd book in the Trouble in Texas series. It's fully loaded with likable characters and snappy dialog. Heroine Glynna Greer is on her own after her loathsome husband bit the Texas dust--the only problem is she must support her two children all by herself... But just maybe help will arrive in the form of a handsome doctor named (I love this) Dare Riker.

If you love romance that involves cowboys, villains, and spunky heroines you'll want to read this one!

Bethany House Publishing has given some wonderful information about Mary and Fired Up! So...


This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Fired Up

(Bethany House March 1,

by

Mary Connealy


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.


The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.


The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.


Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.


The Sophie's Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.


She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rollicking Wild West Adventure and Romance from Bestselling Author Mary Connealy


Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment, which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.


Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to care for her son and daughter on her own. She wants to believe Dare Riker is as decent as he seems, but she's terrified to lock herself into another marriage. She plans to support her small family by opening a diner--never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent. The men in Broken Wheel, Texas, are so desperate for home cooking that they seem willing to overlook dried-out beef and blackened biscuits.


Glynna can't help but notice that danger follows Dare wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And then the fire. But things really get out of hand when someone plunges a knife from Glynna's diner into Dare's back. Are Flint's cronies still plotting revenge? Is Glynna's son engaged in a misguided attempt to protect his mother? Is a shadowy outsider still enraged over past injustices? And can Dare survive long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?


If you would like to read the first chapter of Fired Up, go HERE.

Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta

Born of Persuasion is the first book in the Price of Privilege Trilogy. Fans of book series set in the Regency/Victorian period will rejoice that there is more to come after beginning this gripping tale of intrigue, mystery, and a bit of slight of hand.

Told brilliantly in the first person by seventeen year old Julia Elliston, Born of Persuasion is a captivating read that will keep you turning the pages into the night as you wonder what will become of orphaned Julia who has only her wits and stubborn determination-- not to be "played" by the people who have power over her future.

Jessica Dotta is a new name to me, but one that I will remember and seek out with happy anticipation.

Please read on for more excellent information from the good people at Tyndale House Publisher's Inc.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Born of Persuasion

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (September 1, 2013)

by

Jessica Dotta


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Born in the wrong century–except for the fact that she really likes epidurals and washing machines–Jessica Dotta writes British Historicals with the humor like an Austen, yet the drama of a Bronte.


She resides lives in the greater Nashville area—where she imagines her small Southern town into the foggy streets of 19th century London. She oversees her daughter to school, which they pretend is an English boarding school, and then she goes home to write and work on PR. Jessica has tried to cast her dachshund as their butler–but the dog insists it’s a Time Lord and their home a Tardis. Miss Marple, her cat, says its no mystery to her as to why the dog won’t cooperate. When asked about it, Jessica sighs and says that you can’t win them all, and at least her dog has picked something British to emulate.




ABOUT THE BOOK

The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston’s position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.


With two months to devise a better plan, Julia’s first choice to marry her childhood sweetheart is denied. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. However, treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother’s mysterious past. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own. But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.




If you would like to read the first chapter of Born of Persuasion, go HERE.

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Book Tour:Shades of Mercy

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Shades of Mercy

River North; New Edition edition (September 1, 2013)

by

Anita Lustrea
and
Caryn Rivendara


ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Authentic. That’s the word heard over and over when women describe Anita Lustrea. She is a popular speaker at women’s conferences and retreats, and an amazing communicator as co-host of the award winning Midday Connection radio broadcast. Her deep desire is to communicate freedom to women and help them nurture and care for their soul.

Anita is the co-author of “Come to Our Table: A Midday Connection Cookbook” and “Daily Seeds from Women Who Walk in Faith”, a Devotional for women.  Her first solo venture as an author releases in November, 2010, “What Women Tell Me: finding freedom from the secrets we keep.”

Anita and her husband, Mike Murphy, a pastor, along with her teenage son John live in the Chicago suburbs. When she’s not traveling or speaking, you can find her reading and drinking a venti hot tea at her local Starbucks.


*******

Caryn is a sought-after writer and speaker. She’s the author of four books—Shades of Mercy: A Maine Chronicle (River North, September 2013), Known & Loved: 52 Devotions from the Psalms (Revell, April 2013), Grumble Hallelujah (Tyndale House, September 2011), and Mama’s Got a Fake I.D. (WaterBrook Press, March 2009)–and a regular contributor to Christianity Today’s Her.Meneutics as well as columnist for Re:Frame Media’s ThinkChristian blog. She has written dozens of magazine article. Her work has appeared in such publications as Christianity Today, Relevant, FamilyLife, and Engineering and Mining Journal (you read that right).

Caryn leads workshops and speaks at conferences and church groups across the country. She’s also a regular guest on Moody Radio’s Midday Connection with Anita Lustrea and Melinda Schmidt and has been featured on such radio shows as The John and Kathy Show, Changing Worldviews/WOMANTalk with Sharon Hughes, I Thought She Said with Faith Daly, The Paul Edwards Program with Paul Edwards, and Talk from the Heart with Rich Buhler, among many others. Caryn also appeared on The Harvest Show.

Caryn earned a B.A. in English from Calvin College and attended the University of Chicago’s publishing program. She lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband, Rafael, her three kids, a rescued pit bull terrier, two hermit crabs, and several tank fulls of who-knows-what-kind-of fish. Caryn and her family are members of Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church in Elmhurst, Illinois, where Caryn recently joined the worship staff.



ABOUT THE BOOK

It's 1954 and the world-even the far Northwoods of Maine-is about to change. But that change can't happen soon enough for fourteen-year-old Mercy Millar. Long tired of being the "son" her father never had, Mercy's ready for the world to embrace her as the young woman she is-as well as embrace the forbidden love she feels.
 When childhood playmates grow up and fall in love, the whole community celebrates. But in the case of Mercy and Mick, there would be no celebration. Instead their relationship must stay hidden. Good girls do not date young men from the Maliseet tribe. At least, not in Watsonville, Maine. When racial tensions escalate and Mick is thrown in jail under suspicion of murder, Mercy nearly loses all hope-in love, in her father, and in God himself.



If you would like to read the first chapter of Shades of Mercy, go HERE.

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Blog Tour: Unforeseeable by Nancy Mehl

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Unforeseeable

Bethany House Publishers (September 1, 2013)


by

Nancy Mehl


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mystery, Romance, and Suspense Seamlessly Combined in a Mennonite Small-Town Setting

Callie Hoffman knows she has a good life in Kingdom, Kansas. She's thrilled to be engaged to Levi Housler, the new pastor of Kingdom Mennonite Church, and she spends her days working with her friend and soon-to-be sister-in-law, Lizzie Housler, at Cora's Cafe.

However, Callie's idyllic life is interrupted when a body is discovered on the road outside Kingdom and the deceased turns out to be a victim of a serial killer. As Washington County's new sheriff begins questioning Kingdom residents, Callie and the rest of the town are appalled at the prospect of a killer among them. The very reason Kingdom exists is to protect the people from the temptations and dangers of the outside world, but all the town founders' attempts to plan ahead couldn't prevent a threat like this.

Unsettled at this unforeseen danger, Callie is concerned when it appears Levi knows more than he's telling. Desperate to find answers for herself, Callie never expected that she'd have to face some of her own past's skeletons.

As Callie and the residents of Kingdom fear this danger for which they never planned, they must learn anew that only God knows the future and their trust must always lie in Him.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Unforeseeable, go
HERE.