Loretta Eidson's Blog, page 8

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS . . .

Ken and I wish you a Merry Christmas . . . and a New Year filled with love, health, and happiness!

 

May you . . .

May you always see the good in others . . .

May you love your neighbor as yourself . . . 

May you forgive even when it’s not your fault  . . . 

May you give without expecting anything in return . . .

May you find the peace that passes all understanding . . .

May you do to others as you would have them do to you . . . 

May you be sensitive and compassionate even in difficult situations . . . 

May you always remember God will never leave you nor forsake you . . .

May you put God first and seek Him with all of your heart . . . 

May you never forget the true meaning of Christmas . . .

             The birth of Jesus, our Savior!

 

 

Luke 2:14 NIV

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,

and on earth peace to those on whom His

favor rests.”

 

 

Abundant Blessings,

Loretta

 

Pursued in the Wilderness 06/2022

Blue Ridge Mountain Escape 06/2023

The Marine’s Deadly Reunion 12/2023

The post Merry Christmas & Happy New Year appeared first on Loretta Eidson.

ACFW New December 2022 Releases

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

 

Contemporary Romance:

A Christmas Bargain by Mindy Obenhaus — When single mom Annalise Grant inherits a fledgling Christmas tree farm in Texas, she vows to do whatever it takes to make it a success. But when neighbor Hawkins Prescott claims some of her trees are on his property, the only option is a partnership. As Christmas draws closer, Annalise and Hawkins find themselves growing closer as well. Could a family by Christmas become part of the deal? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin)) 

Roadtrip for Two by Amy R. Anguish — Dallas wasn’t in the plans when Bree Henley set out to use the nonrefundable honeymoon tickets from her canceled wedding. Nor was running into ex-fiancé Nathan Hart. But their mutual friends and the weather have other ideas. A hurricane cancels their cruise and Bree decides to turn the disaster into a roadtrip for one, never imagining Nathan would object. Nathan is furious when he uncovers the plot to get him back with Bree. But he can’t just let her go roaming around the big city of Dallas alone. Though he knows calling off their wedding was the right thing to do, he still cares for Bree. And before he knows what hits him, he’s volunteered to tag along. Suddenly, it’s a trip for two. Spending the week together might remind them of why they fell in love. But is it enough to overcome the obstacles standing in the way of ‘til death do us part”? (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)

 

General Contemporary:

The Amish Mother’s Secret by Diane Craver — Sometimes a miracle comes to you at exactly the wrong time…
Lindsay is 40 and single when tragedy strikes. Diagnosed with stage 4, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer, her instinct is to right the wrongs in her life. Driven to break free of her alcoholic mother at 17, she fell for Harris. Harris’ life was already planned out for him. Falling for Lindsay had been a dream. However, compelled to wed the woman his parents chose for him, he’d left her to endure a shaky marriage. Pregnant with identical triplets, Lindsay adopted two daughters to an Amish couple, the Yoders. In the years that followed, Mrs. Yoder worked hard to keep her away. When you let go of a miracle, can you ever capture it again? Revealing the truth may prove more devastating than the hurdles that came before…and all that will surely come after for a woman fighting for her life.. (General Contemporary from Vinspire Publishing) 

 

General Historical:

The Wanderer Reborn by Natasha Woodcraft — Can hope triumph in the aftermath of murder? Reeling from the shock of Havel’s murder, Awan doesn’t know how she will ever recover. Kayin’s action torments her. As the years pass, and her younger siblings move on with their lives, she is left behind feeling bitter and lonely. Will she ever learn to forgive and find healing? Then Awan makes a terrible error which threatens to break up what remains of her fractured family. That same day, her God calls her to undertake a radical journey. A journey that will test her faith and force her to face all her darkest fears. (General Historical, Independently Published) 

 

Historical Romance:

All She Ever Dreamed by Robin Lee Hatcher — A dream sometimes comes at great cost. Betrothed in a sensible match, even if the man isn’t the love she’s always imagined, Sarah McNeal relies on the advice her late grandmother gave as well as her own common sense. Dreams of a mysterious European count who rides in and sweeps her off her feet are the stuff of girlhood. And she’s a woman now. But when her fiancé’s older brother, Jeremiah, returns to Boulder Creek, he unknowingly awakens that discarded dream. Nine years ago, Jeremiah West lost his wife and newborn son in an epidemic, and he’s been wandering ever since. A survivor of the Spanish-American War, he finally returns to Boulder Creek to settle on the farm he inherited from his father, an inheritance his younger brother still begrudges. When a blizzard threatens Sarah’s life—and her reputation—Jeremiah is there to rescue her. But the pain of his past remains a stumbling block. Then fate brings Jeremiah and Sarah to a crossroads, and love demands a decision that will change the course of their lives. (Historical Romance, Independently Published) 

Defending Truth by Shannon McNear — Ava Sanford longs to be known as more than the pastor’s kid. When the opportunity arises to study abroad in Scotland, she jumps at the chance to leave the Texas coast and the pressures of Grace Church behind. But she never meant to leave God too. Her roommate’s partying lifestyle promises the fun Ava has been missing out on—until a traumatic assault leaves her faith and pride in ruins. As her life in Scotland begins to crumble, rumors race back home, threatening her relationships with her family and friends, including Jack Shields. A former athlete, Jack keeps his head down, working through college and coasting through life. After losing both his mother and his scholarships, he knows the things you love can disappear at any moment. But when his best friend seems to be next, the nonchalance and security he carefully guards are broken. Fighting for Ava will mean risking it all, and he can’t do it alone. Only God can show them both how far grace can go. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Love’s New Beginnings by Penny Zeller — Lydie Beauchamp recently moved with her aunts—sisters Myrtle and Fern—to the untamed Wyoming Territory. When a teaching position in nearby Willow Falls captures her attention, can she leave her aunts, one of whom just suffered a broken heart, and embark on this new adventure? Will she find the courage to persevere in the midst of challenges, one being a handsome challenge named Solomon Eliason? Reverend Solomon Eliason has the goal of making a difference. Hired as the pastor of Willow Falls, he must convince the congregation that he is able to undertake the role of a reverend. When he’s nominated to be the adult in charge of the annual prank tradition at the school, he embraces the idea, thinking the new teacher will be an elderly crotchety woman like his former teacher. What he doesn’t realize until it’s too late is that the teacher is far from crotchety and elderly. When Lydie and Solomon’s paths cross in an unexpected way during the prank tradition at the Willow Falls school, can Solomon redeem himself in the eyes of the lovely new teacher? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

The Seasoning of Elizabella: A Jamestown Bride Story by Tamera Lynn Kraft — Elizabella can’t imagine anything worse than being a Jamestown bride — but her sister is determined to do just that. On the way to the ship to stop her sister, she witnesses a brutal murder and must flee for her life. She takes refuge on the ship, pretending to be her sister, intending to leave as soon as she is safe. Before she knows it, she is headed for the New World, trapped by desperation and deception. 
Miles fled to Jamestown with his family to escape the shame from their father’s actions. Tragedy has tested his faith, including the loss of his wife and newborn son. His grief makes him more determined than ever to keep his one remaining brother from following in their father’s footsteps. Will God heal their pain? How can their love grow when Elizabella desires nothing more than to return to London, and Miles desires nothing more than to remain in Jamestown? (Historical Romance from Mt Zion Ridge Press LLC)

 

Romance: Amish:

Her Unlikely Amish Protector by Jocelynn McClay — He’s learned from his mistakes…But can he protect her from his past?
Miriam Schrock has one rule in her quest for a respectable Amish life—stay away from troublemakers like Aaron Raber. That is, until their employers play matchmaker and Miriam sees a different side to the former rebel. Aaron promises his time with an Englischer gang is behind him. But when his past returns, will protecting Miriam from their threats mean losing her for good? (Romance: Amish from Love Inspired (Harlequin)) 

 

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

Found: An Almost Perfect Christmas by Kimberly Rose Johnson — When a young boy’s life is threatened, his dad will do anything to keep him safe, including eliciting the help of his single and beautiful school teacher. One of Hope Creek, Montana’s most desired single men has his hands full this Christmas with a new puppy litter, work, and a rambunctious young son. Now, someone has threatened to harm his son if he doesn’t reveal the location of a mystery woman. Second grade teacher, Bethany Evans, loves her job, but she wants more. Could Toby and his dad hold the key to making this Christmas extra special, or will the trouble they are facing not only ruin Christmas but destroy their lives in the process?. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance, Independently Published) 

Texas Smoke Screen by Jessica R. Patch — Where there’s smoke, there’s fire. And where there’s fire, there’s a killer…FBI profiler Vera Gilmore has the scars—both outside and in—to remind her how deadly fire is. Now homicide detective Brooks Brawley—her once sweetheart—needs her help with a serial arsonist and murderer in his small Texas town. But almost immediately, Vera becomes a target. Will staying at Brooks’s ranch with him and his daughter keep them all safe…or put them right in the killer’s path. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

 

  A Christmas Blessing  by Judith McNees, Can two opposites look past appearances to see each other’s hearts? (Romance: Novella) 

 

  Deadly Conclusion  by Kathy Harris , Beau leads a manhunt to find her before the outcome reaches a deadly conclusion. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance) 

 

  Fractured Mind  by Sheridan Lee, “Fractured Mind” is an edgy contemporary Christian women’s fiction story which depicts how a ‘baby Christian’ with a troubled past bumbles about trying to live up to the Biblical perspective she knows she needs to follow. (Contemporary) 

 

  Hope Again at Christmas  by Cathe Swanson, Three heartwarming novels that will have you laughing and crying… and swooning over the sweet romances tied up with tinsel, carols, and hope for the future. (Contemporary Romance) 

 

  Kindred Star  by M.D. House, Is the galaxy ready for a new set of storms? (Speculative Fiction/Military) 

 

  Lilly’s Promise  by Terrie Todd,  Will the truth she uncovers about her grandmother, Lilly, inspire her to let go of her fear and rise to the occasion? (General Contemporary/Split Time) 

 

  Oddball Ornaments: The Story of Christmas  by Terry Overton, When animated ornaments discover they are not the reason for Christmas, they set off in a quest to find the true meaning of Christmas. (Children’s) 

 

  Where Dreams Reside  by Heidi Chiavaroli, A shameful past, an orchard camp, and a kindling romance…not exactly Little Men, but Bronson Martin never liked being compared to the March family anyhow. (Contemporary Romance) 

 

  The Wildness of Spring  by Lana Lynne, Meeting Mr. Wright. Quil meets Mr. Wright and discovers he is all wrong. (Contemporary Romance)

The post ACFW New December 2022 Releases appeared first on Loretta Eidson.

Life Lesson: Courage to Walk Through Self-Forgiveness by DiAnn Mills

Put on your rhino skin and lace up your courageous boots. The time has come to walk through self-forgiveness and enter the world of peace of mind. The journey may be rough. Tears may fall. A few scrapes and bruises might draw a gasp. But if we refuse to step into the mire, we’ll never experience the elation of broken chains.

We’ve all said and done inexcusable things that seep with regret and ooze with self-loathing. Embarrassment, humiliation, and disappointing actions seize us whenever the situation enters our mind.

Depression can set in, like a dark shadow. We physically hurt. A lump stays fixed in our throats. We’re afraid to tell anyone. Counseling is out of the question, because the therapist might think badly of us.

Instead of unloading the junk from our hearts and minds, we keep rearranging the details and reliving whatever happened that we simply can’t walk away from. Let’s face it. We all have those painful moments. But how we handle the ugliness of our lives shows who we really are. Do we long to be strong or cower into a pitiful mess?

Being chained to the past means the suffering person never experiences freedom. Only when we are able to face the problem, deal with the issues rationally, and take positive steps to move ahead does truth have an opportunity to surface and true forgiveness wraps around our heart. When we can clear our vision, optimism has an opportunity to take root inside us where it counts.

Hope is knowing God’s hand grips ours.

Get the picture?

Let God show us His unconditional love.

Here is a truth for us to grasp. Romans 8:1 ESV

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.

We long to rid ourselves of the chains yet we feel we deserve the condemnation. What if someone finds out? Is God the only One who knows my inner faults? Is the only way to forget, to shove it out of our mind?

Scripture says it beautifully. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Friends, the above means for us to get past the most-horrible-thing and live for God.

The following 11 steps to emotional wholeness can get us marching in the right direction.

Stop the bitter self-condemnation. Face the problem now.Accept the inexcusable words or actions that have you chained to misery. David’s Psalm 51 shows how he grieved his sin and begged God to create a new heart within him.Confess to God the circumstances and ask His forgiveness with a determination that through His help, the action will not happen again.Understand God doesn’t want you miserable. His desire is for you to live in joy and freedom from emotional pain.Consult with a friend or a Christian counselor. Be transparent and trust in patient confidentiality.Search out the person or persons offended and ask for forgiveness, unless it might cause further harm. If they are no longer living, write them a letter and destroy it.Eliminate the word impossible from your database. Through our heavenly Father, we can forgive ourselves to achieve emotional and spiritual wellbeing.Release the hurt and pain. Some people close their eyes and envision tossing the happening into the sea. However, you choose to walk in freedom, do it.Learn from the mistake and be willing to help others who’ve walked through the same ugliness. Embrace healing with a positive attitude.Look for ways the past can be a blessing to others. Share what God has done for you.Repeat when necessary. Growing in Christ isn’t a one-time event.

Do you have the courage to forgive yourself? Leave a comment for us to help you celebrate. 

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She weaves memorable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure?

Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards, the Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, an active member of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. DiAnn continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.

DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.

DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, BookBub, YouTube, LinkedIn or her website: diannmills.com

Be on the lookout for DiAnn’s newest release!

Concrete Evidence releases October 4, 2022

 

 

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Deception by Patricia Bradley

Deception is book #4 in Patricia Bradley’s Natchez Trace Park Rangers Series.

This twist-laden novel kept me biting my lip, wondering what would happen next. I had difficulty putting it down because of the suspense and the touch-and-go romance. Patricia Bradley does an outstanding job creating tension and raising the stakes.

ISB ranger Madison Thorn is drawn into an investigation in Natchez, Mississippi, and forced to work with her childhood friend, park ranger Clayton Bradshaw. She remembered him as a bully and was none too happy when he pulled her over on a Natchez National Park Road for speeding.

Park Ranger Clayton Bradshaw is teamed up with Madison to work a case. He rushes to the hospital when he hears Madison was shot and in critical condition at the hospital. He discovers this woman isn’t Madison, but a look alike. What was he missing, and what has Madison not told him?

Deception is one of those must-reads, and I highly recommend it. You won’t be disappointed.   

Patricia Bradley is a Romantic Suspense Selah winner, Carol and Daphne du Maurier finalist, and the winner of on Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award. Three anthologies that included her stories debuted on USA Today Best Seller List.

She likes to throw mud on a wheel when she has time and see what happens.

Links:

Blog: www.patriciabradleyauthor.com/blog

Twitter: @ptbradley1

FaceBook: www.facebook.com/patriciabradleyauthor

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ptbradley/

Follow me on BookBub for the latest releases and specials:

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/patri...

 

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Twin Murder Mix-Up by Sami A Abrams

Twin Murder Mix-Up releases on August 23, 2022. This incredible novel kicks off with high-octane suspense and continuous action. The opening scene grabbed my attention and kept me intrigued, glued to the page, and guessing to the end. With a baby to protect, the stakes shoot higher. Kudos to the author for a job well done.

Amy Baker scoops up her sister’s baby and runs for her life after someone murders her twin sister. They’d made a mistake and killed the wrong twin. The only person she trusts is her childhood friend, Keith Young, but they hadn’t spoken in a year. It wasn’t for the lack of her trying to communicate. What had she done to cause this distance between them?

Keith Young, a detective with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department, answers a call from an unknown number. Amy’s shaky voice sounds through the phone. She blurts, “Someone is trying to kill me.” She’d disappeared after her sister’s death, and he hadn’t been able to contact her.

Will Keith reach her before it’s too late? 

Sami Abrams grew up hating to read. It wasn’t until her 30’s that she found authors that captured her attention. Now, most evenings, you can find her engrossed in a Romantic Suspense novel. In her opinion, a crime and a little romance is the recipe for a great story. She lives in Northern California, but she will always be a Kansas girl at heart. She has a love of sports, family, and travel. However, a cabin at Lake Tahoe writing her next story is definitely at the top of her list.

https://samiaabrams

https://www.facebook.com/samiaabrams2

 

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ACFW August 2022 New Releases

August 2022 New Releases

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

Action/Adventure/Biblical:

The Wanderer Scorned by Natasha Woodcraft — The Wanderer is a man shrouded in legend. Moving from place to place in the land of Nod, he is known primarily for the curse that hangs over his life. When that curse is invoked during the celebration of a murderous rampage, The Wanderer is summoned to tell his story. Few know the truth of the tale encompassing life, death, love, hate, faith and doubt, for it has been obscured by centuries of rumour. Now, it will be told by the one who lived it—the man who became The Wanderer. (Action/Adventure, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

The Cowgirl’s Redemption by Mindy Obenhaus — She came home to make things right. Will she be given a second chance? Gloriana Prescott has returned to her Texas hometown to make amends—even if the townsfolk she left behind aren’t ready to forgive. But when her mother’s ranch manager, Justin Broussard, is tasked with saving the struggling rodeo so his teen daughter can compete, Gloriana sees a chance to prove she’s really changed. But can she prove to Justin, and the town, that she’s trustworthy? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Historical: 

A Fallen Sparrow by Lynne Basham Tagawa — 
Three very different people, a printer’s daughter, a Shenandoah valley farmer, and a British spy, must deal with questions relating to the time of the Revolution: when is it biblical to resist tyranny? The story takes place over the entire war, from 1770 to 1782. (General Historical, Independently Published)

Escape from Amsterdam by Lauralee Bliss — Helen Smit believed she was called by God to become a teacher. Little does she know that her care for kids will take a drastic turn for survival when the Germans occupy Amsterdam and Jewish children and parents begin to be deported. Now all she can think of is helping children escape before it’s too late. Erik Misman’s newfound love for Helen is tested when he joins a plot to help move Jewish children to a safe place in the countryside. If danger can foster a closer bond with Helen and save the lives of the little ones, he will do it all. But a German patrol that stumbles upon the farm where they are hiding with three children and a soldier who takes an unexpected interest in Helen, could well destroy their plans for safety and love. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Finding of Miss Fairfield by Grace Hitchcock — When an engagement of convenience becomes anything but convenient . . .Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico. Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather’s business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

The Sugar Baron’s Governess by Elva Cobb Martin — Banished from Charleston for his misdeeds years earlier, Joshua Becket built a new life on both sides of the law in Jamaica. As sugar plantation owner and member of the governing British Assembly, he’s known and respected on the island. But he guards a secret identity. As swashbuckling Captain Jay, he leads daredevil privateering exploits on his ship, the Eagle, when the mood suits him. Currently, he needs a governess for his young daughter whose mother has passed. Widowed gentlewoman Abigail Welch accepted the governess position, leaving behind her disintegrated life in Charleston. This new start in Jamaica might finally help her find healing for her broken heart after losing her husband in the Revolution and their infant son to yellow fever. Joshua’s precocious, undisciplined daughter is the drawing card that brings him and Abigail together like clashing cymbals of disagreement…and fiery attraction. Can love and the miracle power of God give them a new beginning and a happily ever after? (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Literary Historical:

By Way of the Moonlight by Elizabeth Musser — Two courageous young women, tied together by blood and shared passion, will risk everything to save what they love most. For as long as she can remember, Allie Massey, a gifted physical therapist, has dreamed of making her grandparents’ ten-acre estate into a trauma recovery center using equine therapy—a dream her grandmother, Nana Dale, embraced wholeheartedly. But when her grandmother’s will is read, Allie is shocked to learn the property has been sold to a developer. Decades earlier, after losing her prized filly to the Great Depression, headstrong Dale Butler sets out to bring her horse home again. In the years that follow, she finds friendship and love in a congenial new riding partner, until tragedy strikes in the midst of World War II. As Allie searches her grandmother’s estate for a way to keep her dream alive, she uncovers bits and pieces of Nana Dale’s past with her champion filly, a young man named Tommy, and one fateful night in 1943 during the Battle of the Atlantic. (Literary Historical from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Land that I Love by Gail Kittleson — Set in the German Hill Country of Texas during World War II, this is more than a love story. It is about the racism and bigotry that still exist in our world. As these characters struggle with the problems of everyday life, they teach us that we survive hard times by being good neighbors despite our differences and that hatred can be conquered by love, understanding and forgiveness. (Literary Historical from WordCrafts Press)

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

Tracking the Truth by Sharee Stover — Temporarily working in the cold case division was supposed to mean less danger for state trooper Trey Jackson and his injured K-9 partner, Magnum—until they thwart an abduction. Now he must protect profiler Justine Stark, even as she blames him for her friend’s death ten years ago. Can he right past wrongs by finally solving the murder…and making sure Justine lives to find closure?
(Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Twin Murder Mix-Up by Sami A. Abrams — A case of mistaken identity… has lethal results.
(Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Winter Deceptions: A Collection of Christian Suspense Novels by Dan Walsh, et. al — A collection of nine riveting wintry suspense novellas with whispers of romance by ten-award winning Christian suspense authors. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance, Independently Published)

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

 

  Grace on the Mountain Trail by Misty M. Beller, This epic journey is her last hope to find her lost brother—the only family she has left. (Historical Romance)

 

  Jacob’s Hope by Sylvia Anne Nash, In the 1960s, racial prejudice and hatred resulted in a throw-away child. Can that child, now a grown man, forgive the unforgiveable? (Mystery)

 

  More than Grit by Gretchen Carlson, When do secrets become lies? When is grit not enough?
(Young Adult)

 

  Redemption’s Hope by Kathleen D. Bailey, A man without a country and a woman with too much past. (Western Romance)

 

  Settlers’ Hope by Kathleen D. Bailey, He was the West, and she was the East. Could they make a place for themselves in the wet, wild Oregon Country? (Historical Romance)

 

 

The Help of a Cowboy by Elsie Davis , Once a cowboy…always a cowboy. But when life delivers Chad a chance to hang up his boots and spurs, he’s all in. (Contemporary Romance)

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Life Lesson: Mistaken Identity by Marilyn Turk

When I was invited to speak at a library in another town, I was happy to accept. The librarian in charge of marketing made a lovely advertisement with my picture and covers of two of my books.  The library’s summer theme, “Oceans of Possibilities” fit perfectly with my lighthouse brand and my topic was about how lighthouses inspire my writing.

One of the attendees arrived early, bustling with excitement about my presentation. However, as I proceeded through my talk, I noticed her enthusiasm sagged, and when I was finished, she hurried out instead of coming up for the book signing.

Something told me we had not connected and as I went over our conversation, I realized a couple of things. First was how I began by asking what people think when they see lighthouses. Her answer was romance. Then, as I mentioned books and authors I knew, she had a puzzled look, but when she mentioned authors she read, I had the same reaction.

The problem? She thought I was a romance writer, someone whose books have covers with bare-chested men, usually with a woman leaning against them, books known as “bodice-rippers,” and usually contain erotica. My books are not like that. On the contrary, they are clean, Christian-based romances. I thought she knew what kind of books I wrote, but apparently her idea of romance was completely different.

Lesson learned: Make sure others know who I am and what I stand for. In the future, I will introduce myself and my books as Christian-based, clean romances.

Romans 9:1a “I speak the truth in Christ”

Award-winning author Marilyn Turk writes historical and contemporary fiction flavored with suspense and romance. Marilyn also writes devotions for Daily Guideposts. She and her husband are lighthouse enthusiasts, have visited over 100 lighthouses and also served as volunteer lighthouse caretakers at Little River Light off the coast of Maine.

When not writing or visiting lighthouses, Marilyn enjoys walking, boating, fishing, gardening, tennis, playing with grandkids and her golden retriever.

She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Faith, Hope and Love, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Word Weavers International, and the United States Lighthouse Society.

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/marilyn.turk.9/

Twitter – @marilynturk.com

Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/bluewaterbayou.

Website – Pathways of the Heart, https://pathwayheart.com/. Two blogs: Lighthouse blog and The Writers Path blog. Sign up for newsletter and blogs on this site.

Bookbub – https://www.bookbub.com/profile/marilyn-turk

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Amazon author page – https://www.amazon.com/Marilyn-Turk/e/B017Y76L9A

 

Be sure to check out all of Marilyn’s books. See below:

Historical Series

Coastal Lights Legacy

Rebel Light

Revealing Light

Redeeming Light

Rekindled Light

 

Suspicious Shores

The Gilded Curse

Shadowed by a Spy

Seaside Strangers (coming soon)

 

Standalone Novels

Abigail’s Secret

Coming March 2023, The Escape Game

 

Novella Collections

The Wrong Survivor in Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides

Love’s Cookin’ at the Cowboy Café in Crinoline Cowboys

Between Two Worlds in Heart of the Midwife

The Christmas Gift in The Christmas Gazebo

Kaetlyn’s Cup of Christmas Cheer in Misstletoe Mishaps

Not My Party in Never Too Late for Romance (March 2021)

The Old Beach House in The Waves of Romance (July 2021)

Book Lady of the Bayou in The Librarian’s Journey (Oct. 2021)

 

Nonfiction

Lighthouse Devotions

 

 

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Fatal Forensic Investigation by Darlene L Turner

Fatal Forensic Investigation is an intense, action-packed romantic suspense that will have you biting your nails as you turn each page. The characters are realistic, and the plot is well-developed. Readers looking for a chilling, suspenseful adventure will love this book.

Constable Scarlet Wells, a forensic artist, sketches the face of the Coastline Strangler as described to her by his only surviving witness. The strangler shows up and kills the witness, then shoots at Scarlet, grazing her head and knocking her to the floor. He rips the picture from her art pad and destroys it. His eyes are etched in her memory before she passes out. Or so she thinks.

Police officer Jace Allen rushes into the hospital room and finds Scarlet, a girl from his college days, unconscious on the floor. He’d requested her to help in the Coastline Strangler’s case because she was an excellent forensic artist. He needs her help to identify the killer.

Scarlet wakes up and doesn’t remember anything. She doesn’t remember her name, her talent, the case of the Coastline Strangler, his eyes, or Officer Jace Allen. Will her memory return in time to save the lives of other women or her life?

Don’t miss out! Fatal Forensic Investigation is a must-read!       

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders.

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ACFW July New Releases

Here’s a glance at all the great novels available this month. More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Contemporary Romance:

Leaving the Past Behind by Sandra Ardoin — The joy Danni Barnett found in her job as a travel writer and photographer faded around the same time her husband walked out on her. When her late sister-in-law’s will brings the couple together to care for her children, Danni must face her fear of motherhood or lose a second chance with Brooks. Brooks Barnett’s life has spun out of his control. A crumbled marriage. A career on hold. The loss of his sister. Brooks determines to keep Danni at arm’s length, but it’s a daunting task when his niece and nephew love her as much as he does. How will Brooks protect two grieving children from more loss when he can’t even protect his heart from Danni’s pull? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Muskota Blue by Carolyn Miller — For Sarah Maguire, spending the summer at Lake Muskoka was supposed to be about finding the courage to put back the pieces of her shattered life—not falling in love with the charming yet unsophisticated hockey player from next door.
Daniel Walton may have been praying for Miss Right to appear, but Sarah’s ice princess act just cries Miss Wrong. Dan’s summer plans hadn’t included befriending a redhead with a sassy tongue and cute accent, but as Muskoka works its magic he soon discovers that underneath the frost and prickles is the funny, feisty, loving woman he’s waited all his life to meet. As their friendship deepens, Sarah comes to appreciate Dan’s patience and kindness yet struggles to let go of the past and embrace the future, while Dan, only too conscious of the personal history he wants to forget, questions the wisdom of pursuing a girl whose heart may never be wholly his – who may soon return to live on the opposite side of the world. Will past regrets lead to further heartbreak? Or can Sarah and Dan learn to leave the past in the past and embrace God’s promises for the future? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Seaside Proposal by Narelle Atkins — Billie Radcliffe has a secret. And she isn’t sharing it with anyone, including Zach Montford. Even though she feels an instant connection with the good-looking banker and youth leader, she’s wary of rejection. Besides she’s only in the close-knit beach community until she meets the one man who can fill in the blanks about her history. Zach hopes his temporary stint with the church will help him decide whether to go into full-time ministry. Though his career plans are uncertain, he’s sure about his growing feelings for Billie. When a shocking revelation throws everything into question, Zach and Billie have a chance to put the past to rest … and walk into the future together. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

To Begin Again by Emily Conrad — Michaela Vandehey’s reality show win transformed her from the girl whose own father ignored her into a pop singer loved by the masses. But fame has proven hard to keep. To bolster her floundering career, she heads to Wisconsin to snag a collaboration with the iconic rock band Awestruck. There, she meets bass guitarist Philip, a dad whose devotion challenges her skepticism about love and family. Whatever faith Philip Miller had died with his wife. Now, “Amazing Grace” is nothing but a lullaby to sing to his children in her memory. Thanks to Awestruck, he can provide privileged lives for his kids, but he has no intention of finding love again. If only he weren’t so drawn to Michaela. When he falls for her despite himself, Michaela learns the dark secret that threatens his family’s future. The grace they’ve heard so much about might grant them the fresh start they need, but to begin again, they’ll first have to sacrifice what they hold most dear. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

General Contemporary:

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold — Frustrated reporter Aidyn Kelley begrudgingly agrees to help a hospice patient prepare her obituary. But old Clara Kip has some incredible stories–and some surprises up her sleeve–that promise to make this seemingly throwaway assignment a life-changing one. (General Contemporary, from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

More Than Sparrows by Claire SpencerChristensen — Kate is at a crossroads. A lapse in judgement has her clashing with management at Westbrook Community Justice Service, her offer to accommodate a client in her own home breaching department regulations. Not only does this infuriate her team leader, but it provides the clever, charismatic department psychologist, Dr Paul Leeuwin, yet another opportunity to heap scorn on her world view and rubbish her belief in God. The pressure increases when she dares to question a church leadership decision to fund an extension, seemingly ignoring needy families in the surrounding suburbs. Her concerns dismissed, she falls out with friends when she suggests the community could be better served if the money was spent on a parachurch organisation. In conflict at work and at odds with fellow believers, what is God trying to tell her? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Perfectly Placed by Liana George — Six weeks after leaving China, Nicki Mayfield returns to complete two critical tasks: restore order at New Hope Orphanage and re-connect with the little girl who stole her heart. However, between a stubbornly stone walling supervisor, missing documents, and personal tragedy, Nicki faces challenges at every turn. Is she the best person to bring order – and longevity – to the place these children call home? Then, with the help of an unexpected ally, Nicki makes a life-altering decision that upends her well-planned life and the lives of those around her. Will she lose it all, or has she found the way to save what matters most?
(General Contemporary, from Scrivenings Press)

Historical Romance:

A Feeling of Home by Susan Ann Mason — Isabelle Wardrop’s well-to-do life has completely unraveled. Within months, she’s lost both her parents, her fortune, and her home. With nowhere else to turn, she and her younger sister move in with a trusted former servant in an impoverished area of the city. Desperate for work but having no qualifications, Isabelle is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw, the very man she blames for her mother’s death. (Historical Romance from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Byway to Danger by Sandra Merville Hart — Everyone in Richmond has secrets. Especially the spies. Meg Brooks, widow, didn’t stop spying for the Union when her job at the Pinkerton National Detective Agency ended, especially now that she lives in the Confederate capital. Her job at the Yancey bakery provides many opportunities to discover vital information about the Confederacy to pass on to her Union contact. She prefers to work alone, yet the strong, silent baker earns her respect and tugs at her heart. Cade Yancey knows the beautiful widow is a spy when he hires her only because his fellow Unionist spies know of her activities. Meg sure didn’t tell him. He’s glad she knows how to keep her mouth shut, for he has hidden his dangerous activities from even his closest friends. The more his feelings for the courageous woman grow, the greater his determination to protect her by guarding his secrets. Her own investigations place her in enough peril. As danger escalates, Meg realizes her choice to work alone isn’t a wise one. Can she trust Cade with details from her past not even her family knows? (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Inventions of the Heart by Mary Conneally — Her heart seeks safety. But will trouble find her even here? After her sister’s marriage, Michelle Stiles is left hiding at Two Harts Ranch with the handsome but stubborn Zane Hart. She’s managed to stay one step ahead of her stepfather and his devious plans, but if he finds her, she will no longer be safe. Zane has problems of his own. Having discovered a gold mine on his property, he must figure out how to harvest it without kicking off a gold rush. Michelle, educated and trained to run her father’s business, wants to manage all aspects of the mine, but Zane thinks for a person so smart she can have some misguided ideas. Running the mining operation will be a dangerous job, and he can’t risk putting her in harm’s way. But danger finds Michelle anyway when she’s suddenly attacked. If they go to the sheriff, they’ll reveal her location, but if they do nothing . . . their troubles have only just begun. (Historical Romance, from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Matters of the Heart by Heidi Gray McGill — Katie is an unconventional and impatient Irish immigrant with a determination to champion the needs of Civil War orphans and widows, no matter the fallout. Hans served his time and has no desire to join another cause to help the needy unless he’s the one in question. Stubbornness and demons of their past may keep them from their goals and each other, yet in the end, they realize the answer isn’t always in the one you seek. (Historical Romance, ACFW QIP (Qualified Independently Published))

Speculative Fiction:

Aivan: The One Truth by Kayla E. Green — Rune has grown up all of her life in the mountainous northern nation of Kansanai. As granddaughter of the Senior Elder, she has been a devout believer of the Vihishki gods her whole life. Yet, when a prophet challenges the Vihishki gods against his Aivan, the One Truth, everything she thought she knew is turned upside down. Will she be able to let go of the life she thought she deserved for something far greater than what she could have ever imagined? (Speculative Fiction from Ambassador International)

When Legends Rise by Daphne Self — He is now one of them. Genetically altered… Designed to kill… Trained to eradicate…Until he became more. Juliet 7-A was the top elite assassin for the Global Federated Territories until an ambush deemed him unsalvageable. He was scheduled for decommission. His only recourse for survival is a new identity and his search for the one friend he had–a friend who deserted him. Those he once hunted will save him. Yet it comes with a price. A price that demands much of him. What happens when an assassin awakens? (Speculative Fiction from Ambassador International)

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

Sabotaged Mission by Tina Radcliffe — When a failed mission leaves CIA operative MacKenzie “Mac” Sharp injured and her partner presumed dead, going off-grid is the only way to survive. But her old flame, CIA officer Gabe Denton, has tracked her down and led a well-connected enemy right to her door. Now with someone trying to frame and kill her, working with Gabe is the only way to clear her name…and stay alive. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Western: 

The Sister’s Search by Susan Page Davis — Molly Weaver and her widowed mother embark on an arduous journey at the end of the Civil War. They hope to join Molly’s brother Andrew on his ranch in Texas. When they arrive, Andrew is missing and squatters threaten the ranch. Can they trust Joe, the stranger who claims to be Andrew’s friend? Joe’s offer to help may be a godsend—or a snare. And who is the man claiming to be Molly’s father? If he’s telling the truth, Molly’s past is a sham, and she must learn where she really belongs. (Western from Scrivenings Press)

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

 

  Anchored at Mackinac by Carrie Fancett Pagels, Will hearts be broken when choices are made—or will all hoped-for wishes be fulfilled? (Historical Romance)

 

  A Place to Heal by Allie Pleiter, Dana’s found the perfect place for her camp–but will Mason agree to her terms? (Contemporary Romance)

 

  A Thousand Lies by Kathy Cassel, Will uncovering her true identity bring the closure and purpose Bailey seeks—or turn out to be the worst mistake of her life? (General Contemporary)

 

  Ben in Trouble by Luana Ehrlich, Can Titus get them out of the mess they’re in, or will Ben salvage the operation and bring it to a successful conclusion? (Thriller/Suspense)

 

  Close Encounters of the Mysterious Kind by Marissa Shrock, Bobbi Sue knows she can’t stay quiet, and the problem is, the person behind the murder is intent on her doing exactly that, no matter what it takes. (Mystery: Cozy)

 

  Love at the Garden Tomb by R. F. Whong, Love—one plus one can’t be two. Longline: Chance meetings at the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem force ex-lovers to journey through betrayal, guilt, redemption, and reconciliation. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Shadow of Honor by Ronnie Kendig, Faced with her true identity, Eija sees her purpose snap into focus, and she realizes the war Marco fears may be the very one he has been called to start.(Speculative Fiction)

 

  Wages of Sin by Urcelia Teixeira, To find her future, she must embrace her past.
(Thriller/Suspense)

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