Sandra Merville Hart's Blog, page 12

ACFW New Releases July 2024

June 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Contemporary Romance:

Renee by Sandra Ardoin — A bake-off competition can change widow Renee Burnette’s life and mend a frayed friendship. As the bake-off competition intensifies, Renee’s office relationships are strained, her sweet son becomes unruly, and the rift with her old friend widens. Can a decades-old cookbook help Renee restore the bonds every woman needs? (Romance from Corner Room Books)

Pointe, Shoots, and Scores by Carolyn Miller — When Bailey Donovan’s dance studio faces the risk of closure, she takes a God-given miracle of a gig training a complete non-dancer for a TV show. Only problem is, he’s a real grump, and for an athlete, seems to be lacking all the moves. Luc Blanchard loves hockey, God, and his family, with no time for more, until an unexpected promotion forces him to swallow his pride for the sake of his team. Sparks soon fly as these two opposites spend time together, and TV ratings push for their onscreen partnership to make a fake relationship real. But as they discover a certain magic under the spotlight, will issues from the past ever let them truly soar? (Contemporary Romance Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

Their Unlikely Protector by Meghann Whistler — The last person Valerie Williams expects to rescue her and her toddler twin brothers from a fiery blaze is Brett Richardson, her high school nemesis. But with her house burned down, Valerie is forced to stay at the same inn as Brett and work with him on the town festival. Now Brett has the chance to make things right, but can Valerie let go of the past to make way for a future together? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Historical:

Muldoon’s Misfortunes by E.V. Sparrow — A poor widower who suffers from scoliosis loses his second family in Ireland from a typhus epidemic, and his sister convinces him to emigrate to the land of plenty, America. (Historical from Celebrate Lit Publishing)

Historical Romance:

Into the Starlight by Amanda Cabot — Who would have guessed that a spinster’s desire to visit her fiancé’s grave would change the course of a young doctor and a lovely pianist’s lives and resolve a decades-old mystery? (Historical Romance from Revell)

War’s Unexpected Gift by Linda Shenton Matchett — Eager to do even more for the war effort, nurse Gwen Milford puts in for a transfer from a convalescent hospital outside of London to an evac hospital headed across Europe. Leap-frogging from one location to the next, nothing goes as expected from stolen supplies to overwhelming numbers of casualties. Then, there’s the handsome doctor who seems to be assigned to her every shift. As another Christmas approaches without the war’s end, can she find room in her heart for love? (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)

Libby’s Lighthouse by Susan G Mathis — When a lighthouse keeper’s daughter finds a mysterious sailor with amnesia, the secrets she uncovers may change her life forever. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

The Highlander’s Charity by Z Peabody — From the halls of the royal palace of Oge-chukwukama, to the lush oasis of Shushara, Sani and Teagan will travel the golden dunes to their destinies together. (Historical Romance from Z Peabody Publishing LLC)

Romantic Suspense:

Four Doubt: A Silas McKay Suspense by Luana Ehrlich — Silas investigates the murder of a cybersecurity executive. Was it a random shooting or a targeted killing? (Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

When Secrets Come Calling by Felicia Ferguson — Two ex’s once headed to the altar are reunited by a cold case robbery and murder. His dad is the accused, and she’s the investigator. Will the case’s fallout bury their love forever or rekindle a life they only dreamed of? (Romantic Suspense from Salt & Light Publishing)

Sunset Over Swaziland by Shirley E. Gould — A former military hero rescues a beautiful grant writer when riots erupt in a third-world country and becomes her bodyguard as she completes her assignment losing his heart to her as they work to save orphans being trafficked. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)

Vengeance in Vienna by Sara L. Jameson — A moonlight sail, a sniper on the shore, and a terrorist financier determined to kill Interpol agent Jacob Coulter and everyone he holds dear. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)

Chasing Amanda: Expanded Edition by Robin Patchen — Now with a brand-new bonus epilogue… In the tense months following 9/11, a chance encounter sparks an unlikely connection between two strangers—a young college student and a marine on his way to Afghanistan, but once he says goodbye, there’ll be nobody there to protect her from the stalker with sinister intentions… (Romantic Suspense from Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

Speculative Fiction (Time Travel):
The Root of the Matter by Lynne Basham Tagawa — Geneva Fielding, an archivist in the Department of Applied History, is sent back in time with a colleague, Peter Donatelli, to investigate John Winthrop and Roger Williams in New England of the 1630s. (Speculative Fiction from Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

 

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

The Way Back by Heidi Chiavaroli — When her mother’s vindictive fans threaten her grandmother’s livelihood and the lighthouse Laney has come to love, she turns to the century-old words of a young lighthouse keeper to help her find the courage to move forward. But once truths from the past come to light and old love finds new beginnings, will Laney discover that forgiveness is the only way toward true healing? (Literary Contemporary)

Her Part to Play by Jenny Erlingsson — When a last minute change in his team brings John face to face with the feisty and alluring Adanne, will the flash of bright lights be stronger than the pull of their hearts? (Contemporary Romance)

Running from the Past by Melanie D Snitker — They must face their fears or risk losing everything. The investigation leads them right back to the scene of the crime. If they have any hope of identifying the killers, they’ll have to set aside their differences or risk facing their greatest fear: losing each other. (Romantic Suspense)

Julia’s Joy by Susan G. Mathis

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Love at a Lighthouse, Book 2

Terms in her grandmother’s will send Julia Collins to Sister Island on the St. Lawrence River. Julia is accustomed to an active social life. The island only has two residents when she arrives, the lightkeeper and his mother. Before she arrives, she is certain her grief won’t required this much solitude.

William Dodge, the lightkeeper, is recovering from his fiancé ending their engagement, who broke up with him over his occasional bouts with pleurisy. Julia’s lack of faith troubles him and he gives her room to make that journey.

Surprising twists kept me turning pages. Loveable, believable characters drew me into their story. Their heartache tugged at my emotions.  

This gentle, well-written love story is highly recommended for those who love to immerse themselves in another time with a great book!   

I was given a copy of the book by the author. A positive review was not required.

Amazon

Finding the Dog Groomer’s Soulmate by Cindy Ervin Huff

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Dog Groomer’s Love Stories, Book 2  

Former Air Force Captain Cassie Quinn lost her arm in a roadside IED. To escape her nightmares and panic attacks, she applies for a job at a Dog Groomer’s. She’s surprised when the family-run business hires her. She sees it as a step toward healing.

Aaron Willis is part owner of a thriving Dog Grooming business. The animal loving bachelor has a hard time saying no to anyone who needs him. Before long, Cassie has captured his attention. They begin dating but his need to help her overwhelms Cassie.

She’s getting more comfortable with her prosthetic arm physically but inside she feels emotionally broken. Who will want to marry her?

Believable, loveable characters had me rooting for them. The tension increased as the story went on, drawing me into the story. Some surprising twists caused me to wonder how the hero and heroine could resolve their conflict.

This novel will appeal to animal lovers and dog lovers. Cassie needs an emotional support dog and it was inspiring to see how her pet helped her deal with her nightmares and her panic attacks.

I recommend this contemporary romance novel, and dog lovers will especially enjoy it.

Amazon

The Humble American Muffin

by Pegg Thomas

Welcome back to gifted author, Pegg Thomas! Pegg was the editor for three of my early books. Her latest release, Henri’s Regret, published on July 1st! To celebrate, she has an offer for a free book. Read on to discover the details. She’s sharing a recipe for delicious Orange Muffins with us. Thanks for joining us today, Pegg!

Prior to the invention of chemical leaveners—particularly baking powder—all breads were leavened by yeast. But once baking powder became popular in the mid-1800s, quick breads soared in popularity across America. Women didn’t have to plan the day before to have a yeast batter or dough ready for baking. Anyone could whip up a muffin batter or biscuit dough and have them out of the oven to serve within the hour. What a luxury!

I enjoy making muffins for breakfast, and these orange muffins are my favorite.

Orange Muffins

11oz can Mandarin oranges

1 egg

½ cup sugar

Milk

¼ cup oil

½ cup whole wheat flour

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 Tbsp baking powder

½ teas salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 12-slot muffin tin or use paper inserts. Drain liquid from oranges into a measuring cup. Add enough milk to measure 1 cup. (The milk will curdle.) Mix drained oranges with egg and sugar in a mixing bowl until orange segments break apart. Stir in liquid and oil. Add dry ingredients and stir just until blended. Distribute evenly into the 12 muffin slots. Bake for 15 – 18 minutes, until muffins are done. Remove immediately from the tin and cool on a wire rack.

Fun fact: the term English Muffin was coined in the U.S. by Samuel Bath Thomas in 1880.

To celebrate her newest release Pegg is offering a free eBook of Henri’s Regret, the prequel to her Forts of Refuge Series when you subscribe to her newsletter. https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/756469/109549774328301212/share

Henri’s Regret

Frenchman Henri Geroux can’t sign the oath of loyalty to the British after the end of the French and Indian War. He leaves his home behind and sets out on an adventure with his Ottawa friend, Dances Away. But heading west to trap beaver doesn’t mean he outruns his problems. Faced with a dangerous journey into an unknown land, he and Dances Away get caught up in more than they’d bargained for.

BIO:

Pegg Thomas lives in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula with Michael, her husband of *mumble* years. Besides writing, she enjoys a variety of crafts including spinning sheep’s wool into yarn and knitting her signature wool shawls. Together, she and Michael enjoy camping, fishing, gardening, boat-nerding (you have to be a Great Lakes person to know about that), and thoroughbred horse racing.

A life-long history geek, it’s no surprise that historical fiction is her genre. Colonial America and the Civil War era are favorite time periods to both read and write. She often takes inspiration from her own family tree, with 3 of her grandparents having lineage going back in America to the mid-1600s. Her favorite type of book centers on a great fiction story surrounded by factual historical events.

Massive Series Sale!

by Sandra Merville Hart

Great news! The Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts Series is having an eBook sale!

If you’ve waited to read my 1914 nostalgic story, A Spring at The Greenbrier, Book 7 in Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts Series, now is your chance to take advantage of the sale price!

All the books in this series are stand-alones and can be read in any order.

It was such fun to join this series with other talented Wild Heart Books authors. Settings for the other books include Florida’s Hotel Belleview, Sagamore Resort in the Adirondacks, Point Clear Resort, Thousand Island House on Staple’s Island, Jekyll Island Millionaire’s Club, and Newport.

A Spring at The Greenbrier is set in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, where the historic, breathtakingly beautiful resort is located. It was such a joy to explore the grounds and history of The Greenbrier. Marilla, our heroine, works in the resort’s new Bath Wing in 1914.

Here’s a bit about the book:

Marilla will sacrifice anything for her family, so when her sister’s doctor suggests daily sulphur spring baths, an amenity her family could never afford, Marilla takes a job at The Greenbrier resort bathhouse in order to give her sister the care she needs.

When her sister befriends another girl staying at the resort with a similar health condition, Marilla finds herself crossing paths with the girl’s handsome, charming, older brother. And despite their growing attraction to each other, courting Wes must remain a dream. After all, resort staff cannot court guests and Marilla will not risk her sister’s health for her own happiness.

Wealthy resort guest, Wes Bakersfield, has dreams for a future and plans to make his family’s business his own. And while he finds himself drawn to Marilla, despite their differing social classes, he can’t help but wonder if she is really interested in him, or in his wealth.

Can the couple find the trust to help their love succeed, or will their differences pull them apart?

Don’t miss the sale today on Amazon !

Selah Award Winners 2024

SELAH WINNERS 2024

We are pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 Selah Awards, which were awarded during the Awards Banquet at Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference on Wednesday evening, May 29, 2024.

Because of the purpose of the Selah Awards, in our eyes, you are all winners! 

Articles in Print

Third Place: The $5,000 Walk
Author: Mary Holloman
Publisher: Clubhouse Magazine
Editor: Stephen O’Rear

Second Place: The Sisters Room
Author: Pam Walker
Publisher: Guidepost
Editor: Meg Belviso

First Place: Faith is Spelled R-I-S-K
Author: Annie Yorty
Publisher: Today’s Christian Living
Editor: Michelle Adserias

Articles Online

Third Place: Is Prayer Really That Important?
Author: Leigh Ann Thomas
Publisher:  BibleStudyTools.com
Editor:  G. Connor Salter

Second Place: How to Explain What the Holy Spirit Is
Author: Melinda Eye Cooper
Publisher: Crosswalk.com
Editor: Tiffany Robbins

First Place:Will You Seek the Face of Christ During Lent?
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Living by Design
Editor: Sarah Koontz

Devotions in an Individual Book

Third Place: Love in a Lunch Box (From Life Lessons for Moms)
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Christian Art Gifts
Editor: Carol Kent

Second Place: (TIE) Peace (From: More Than Just Words)
Author:  Sara Cormany
Publisher: Redemption Pess

Second Place: (TIE) Our Shepherd (From: Life Lessons for Moms)
Author:  Maureen Miller
Publisher: Christian Art Gifts
Editor: Carol Kent

First Place: Temporary Lane Closure (From: Coffee with God on the Road)Author: Suzanne D. Nichols
Publisher: Kerysso Press
Editor: Lisa Worthey Smith
Devotions Online

Third Place: Move on From Mom Guilt
Author:  Kristen Hogrefe Parnell
Publisher: KHCB Network

Second Place: Is Peace Possible in Motherhood?
Author: Kristen Hogrefe Parnell
Publisher: KHCB Network

First Place: Forgiveness
Author: Rachael M. Colby
Publisher: AlmostAnAuthor.com
Editor: Norma Poore

Essays In Print and Online

Third Place: (Tie) Forgiveness Sets Us Free
Author:  Maureen Miller
Publisher: Faith Creativity Life Books
Editor: Michelle Rayburn

Third Place: (Tie) The Ben Test
Author: Rhonda Dragomir
Publisher: Chicken Soup for the Soul
Editor: Amy Newmark

Second Place: My Long Cruise
Author: Becky Alexander
Publisher: Guideposts
Editor: Meg Belviso

First Place: The Awakening
Author: Suzanne Montgomery, M.D.
Publisher: The Indiana Historical Society
Editor: Richard D. Feldman, M.D.

Devotionals

Third Place: Meet Me Where I Am, Lord
Author: Cindy K. Sproles
Publisher: Iron Stream Media
Editor: Susan Cornell
Agent: Bob Hostetler

Second Place: Forty Days with Ezekiel and Friends
Author: Jean Holland
Publisher: Courier Publishing
Editor: Butch Blume

First Place: The Christmas Devotional
Author: Michelle Medlock Adams & Andy Clapp
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Victoria Duerstock
Agent: Cyle Young

Short Story in Print & Online

Third Place: Unless You Turn
Author: Samuel L. Blumenthal
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Jennifer Edwards and Dori Harrell

Second Place: The Other Way
Author: Sara Davison
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Editor: Deb Elkink

First Place: Cradlesong
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher:  Faith Creativity Life Books
Editor: Michelle Rayburn

Anthologies

Third Place: Good Tidings; A Christmas Anthology
Publisher: The Lady Lits
J. B. Wilson & Sarah Soon, General Editors

Second Place: A Thrill in the Air
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Deb Elkink, General Editor

First Place: Dancing in the Rain: Stories to Shelter the Soul
Publisher: The Mosaic CollectionDeb Elkink, General Editor

Children’s Picture & Board Books

Third Place: Mr. OneEars and the Button Which Shall Not Be Pressed
Author:  Jason Wallis

Second Place: Good Morning, God Loves You!
Author:  Crystal Bowman & Terri McKinley
Publisher: Tyndale Kids
Editor: Debbie King
Agent: Karen Neumair

First Place: (Tie) There’s an Elephant on My ChestAuthor: Caris Snider
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Victoria Duerstock
Agent: Del Duduit

First Place: (Tie) I Made the Earth
Author: Shannon Cook
Publisher: Wren & Bear Books
Editor: Michelle Medlock Adams
Agent: Blythe Daniel

Children’s Chapter Books

Third Place: The Tree’s Armor
Author: Erin Greneaux

Second Place: Secret of the Lost Dragons
Author: Phyllis Wheeler
Publisher: Motherboard Books
Editor: Bob Shuma, Steve Rzasa

First Place: The Tower
Author: Evonne Krell
Publisher: Answers in Genesis

Children’s Literature

Third Place: Fingerprint Devotions
Author: Sandra Kay Chambers
Publisher: Ambassador International
Editor: Bruce Stouffer

Second Place: Let’s Be Friends
Author:  Calyn Daniel & Blythe Daniel
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
Editor: Heidi Picinic
Agent: Blythe Daniel

First Place: Our Daily Bread for Kids
Author: Crystal Bowman & Teri McKinleyPublisher: Our Daily Bread
Editor: Katara Patton
Agent: Karen Neumair

Middle Grade Novels

Third Place: Road Trip Rescue
Author:  Becca Wierwille
Publisher: Beloved Chronicles
Editor: Ellen McGinty and Megan Gerig

First Place: Beneath the Swirling Sky
Author: Carolyn Leiloglou
Publisher: WaterBrook
Editor: Bunmi Ishola
Agent: Keely Boeving

YA Fiction & Nonfiction

Third Place: Becoming Lottie Moon
Author: Emily Hall
Publisher: Violet Skies Publishing
Editor: Denise Weimer & Kathy Ide

Second Place: Offsides
Author:  Lori Z. Scott
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Hope Bolinger
Agent: Cyle Young

First Place: Fugitive of Talionis
Author: C. J. Milacci
Publisher: Fayette Press
Editor: Jonathan Shuerger

Bible Studies

Third Place: Habakkuk
Author:  Ray Fowler
Publisher: Understanding God’s Word

Second Place: Little Strength, Big God
Author: Debbie W. Wilson
Publisher: Leafwood Publishers
Editor: Mary Hardegrel
Agent: PeggySue Wells

First Place: Embracing Joy
Author: Jean Wilund
Publisher: Our Daily Bread
Editors: Rachel Kirsch, Linnae Conkel, and Sarah DeMay

Christian Living

Third Place: Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World
Author: Jill Rigby Garner
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Liz Heaney

Second Place: Hard Pressed but Not Crushed
Author: Patti Davis
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor:  Marissa Earl

First Place: Securely Held
Author: Cheryl Pelton Lutz
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Sue Fairchild

General Nonfiction

Third Place: Not Forgotten
Author: Laura C. Brandenburg
Publisher: WestBow Press
Editor: Jeanette Windle

Second Place: Her Children Arise
Author: Casey Hilty
Publisher: Like Eden Press
Editor: Cynthia Ruchti
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: How to Edit Your Novel
Author: Karin Beery
Publisher: Bold Vision Books
Editor: Larry Leech
Agent: Steve Hutson

Inspiration & Gift

Third Place: Finding God in Suffering
Author: Carol Tetzlaff
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Ray Dittmeier

Second Place: Bygone
Author: Hannah Linder
Publisher: Books and Such
Editor: Cynthia Ruchti
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: The Story of Good
Author: Victoria Duerstock
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Hope Bolinger

Memoir

Third Place: Reckless Yes
Author:  Johnna Hensley
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Kathy Ide

Second Place: Suitcases from Heaven
Author: Cindy Seaton Henson
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Tisha Martin

First Place: Breaking the Shadows
Author: Carol Chisolm
Publisher:  Redemption Press
Editor: Ray Dittmeier

Contemporary Romance

Third Place:  The Amish Spinster’s Dilemma
Author:  Jocelyn McClay
Publisher: Love Inspired
Editor: Melissa Endlich

Second Place: Her Scandalous Amish Secret
Author: Jocelyn McClay
Publisher: Love Inspired
Editor: Melissa Endlich

First Place: Julia Monroe Begins Again
Author: Rebekah Millet
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Jessica Sharpe
Agent: Bob Hostetler

Contemporary Women

Third Place: Reclaiming Christmas
Author: Melissa Sneed Wilson
Publisher: Jan-Carol Publishing

Second Place: Lilac Cottage
Author: Carrie Fancett Pagels
Publisher: Hearts Overcoming Press
Editor: Pegg Thomas

First Place: The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos
Author: Kelly Irvin
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Editor: Becky Monds
Agent: Julie Gwinn

First Novel

Third Place: Ona Mae’s Deli and Bait Shop
Author:  Renée Hodges
Publisher: SoShine Press
Editor: Cortney Donelson

Second Place: Heart in the Clouds
Author:  Jennifer Mistmorgan
Publisher: Jennifer Richards
Editor: Dori Harrell
Agent: Rachel McMillan

First Place: Julia Monroe Begins Again
Author: Rebekah Millet
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Jessica Sharpe
Agent: Bob Hostetler

General Fiction

Third Place: Roxie Applesauce
Author: Tonya L. Matthews
Publisher: Haleya Publishing
Editor: Teresa Crumpton

Second Place: Ona Mae’s Deli and Bait Shop
Author: Renée Hodges
Publisher: SoShine Press
Editor: Cortney Donelson

First Place: The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass
Author: Katie Powner
Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Rochelle Gloege
Agent: Keely Boeving

Historical / Biblical

Third Place: The All American
Author:  Susie Finkbeiner
Publisher: Revell
Editor: Kelsey Bowen and Kristin Kornoelje
Agent: Tim Beals

Second Place: Freedom’s Price
Author:  Pegg Thomas
Publisher: Spinner of Yarns
Editor: Robin Patchen

First Place: This Is Where It Ends
Author: Cindy K. Sproles
Publisher: Revell
Editor: Jessica English
Agent: Bob Hostetler

Historical Romance

Third Place: Heart in the Clouds
Author: Jennifer Mistmorgan
Publisher: Jennifer Richards
Editor: Dori Harrell

Second Place: Garden of the Midnights
Author: Hannah Linder
Publisher: Barbour Publishing
Editor: Becky Fish
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: The Maid of Ballymacool
Author: Jennifer Deibel
Publisher: Revell
Editor: Rachel McRae & Robin Turici
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

Mystery / Suspense

Third Place: Every Flower of the Field
Author:  Sara Davison
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Editor: Deb Elkink

Second Place: 26 Below
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Publisher: Kregel
Editor: Janyre Tromp
Agent: Tamela Hancock Murray

First Place: The Vanishing at Castle Moreau
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Rochelle Gloege
Agent: Janet Grant

Novellas

Third Place: In Her Sights
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Publisher: Hope & Light Publishing
Editor: Charlene Patterson

Second Place: The Christmas Carving (From: Chiseled on the Heart)
Author: Kelly Goshorn
Publisher: Scrivenings Press
Editor: Regina Rudd Merrick and Susan Page Davis
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: Deadly Holiday Hijack
Author: Kate Angelo
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Editor: Lynette Eason and Susan May Warren
Agent:  Lynette Eason

Romantic Suspense

Third Place: Expired Vows
Author: Laura Conaway and Lisa Phillips
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Editor: Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips

Second Place: Amish Wilderness Survival
Author: Mary Alford
Publisher: Love Inspired
Editor: Katie Gowlie
Agent: Rachel Kent

First Place: Facing the Enemy
Author: DiAnn Mills
Publisher: Tyndale House
Editor: Jan Stob
Agent: Janet Grant

Speculative

Third Place: The Quickening
Author: Sarah L. Frantz
Publisher: Sursum Corda Press

Second Place: Window of Time
Author:  Erin R. Howard
Publisher: Expanse Books
Editor: Ann Harrison and Linda Fulkerson

First Place: The Secret of Stardust
Author: Heather L. L. FitzGerald
Publisher: Mountain Brook Fire
Editor: Miralee Ferrell and Jenny Mertes

Westerns

Third Place: Accepted
Author:  Paula Peckham
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Editor: Cristel Phelps & Deb Haggerty

Second Place: Emily’s Trials
Author: Henry McLaughlin
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Editor: Deb Haggerty & Peggy Ellis

First Place: The Pursuit of Miss Parish
Author: Grace Hitchcock
Publisher: Valmont House Publishers
Editor: Chantelle Mills

Audio Books

Third Place: The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos
Author: Kelly Irvin
Narrators: Jessica Holtant & Jeremy Childs
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Editor: Becky Monds
Agent: Julie Gwinn

Second Place: Defying Fear
Author: Dr. Nancy Meyer
Narrator: Christy Lou
Publisher: Brookstone Publishing Group
Editor: Anita Agers Brooks, Susan Cornell, and Larry Leech

First Place:With Every Memory
Author: Janine Rosche
Narrator: Laura Knight Keating
Publisher: Revell
Editors: Kelsey Bowen & Robin Turici
Agent: Tamela Hancock Murray

Selah Books of the Year

Each year, the Selah Books of the Year are chosen from those books with the highest scores in each of the three categories. This year, the winners are:

Children (Board Books to Young Adult)

I Made the Earth
Shannon Cook
End Game Press

Nonfiction

The Christmas Devotional
Michelle Medlock Adams & Andy Clapp
End Game Press

Fiction

This Is Where It Ends
Cindy K. Sproles
Revell

ACFW New Releases June 2024

June 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Biblical:

Petra: An Unbroken Legacy by Lisa L. Dorsey — Embark on a journey through time and faith. Witness as the survival of a family’s faith intertwines with pivotal moments in history to build a spiritual legacy anchored in God’s steadfast Love, timeless Word, and infinite Wisdom. (Biblical Adventure from hope*books)

Contemporary Romance:
The Triplets’ Summer Adventure by Laurel M. Blount — Back home for the summer, adventure-seeking Nick Marshall thinks his park ranger gig will be easy—until the children’s camp he’s overseeing is left without a cook. Desperate to fill the position, he offers his high school nemesis, Cara Andrews, the job. As the two work together, Nick can’t help but fall for the single mom and her triplet sons. But convincing her to take a chance on him might be Nick’s toughest challenge yet… (Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Mary’s Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne — Mary finds courage to face her fears about pursuing further treatment for serious injuries sustained as a child, and she and Reuben find a way to be together, with God’s help. (Contemporary Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Love’s True Home by Lori DeJong — Born and raised on the foreign mission field, all Allyson Kincaid wants is home and hearth on American soil. Too bad the first guy who’s made her pulse skip dreams of a life spent in foreign missions. Although she supports him in his calling, knows his choice means she’ll be laying more broken dreams, and a newly shattered heart, at the feet of Jesus. When Zane Carpenter relocates to Arlington, Texas, his seventh move in thirteen years, his only thought is to meet his obligation with Becker Ministries in a few months then take a foreign mission assignment. But working so closely with Ally in student ministry has him feeling things he’s never experienced. He’s ready for a future with her, until he accepts an opportunity to work on foreign soil and Ally stays behind. He knows God put him at the mission for a reason, although his heart still longs for the girl back home. (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)

When the Ocean Roars by Charlsie Estess — Weeks before the Ultimate Fighting World Championship, Keane “The Golden Lion” Temple lands in Japan for the battle of his professional life, primed to take the win. But when his path collides with an intriguing woman, he gives in to impulse and asks her to spend his day off from training with him. Ami Ono cannot pass on the invitation but also hides her full identity. As their extraordinary day bleeds into night, both realize one day won’t be enough. Then the excursion ends in disaster when Keane discovers who Ami is. They part ways, but compelling circumstances and an undeniable attraction draw them back together. As the forbidden romance threatens to take down his principles, he struggles to honor his beliefs. Will The Golden Lion surrender his heart? Will Ami defy the domineering men in her life and accept it? Do they stand a chance against nature? (Contemporary Romance from Iron Stream Media)

A Midsummer Romance by Alyssa Schwarz — The meddling mothers of Wild Rose Ridge will do anything to match up friends Caleb Weaver and Jessica Daniels. Real life begins to mirror Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream a little too much when they are strategically cast as the main couple in the town’s summer play. Will the course of true love end in tragedy? With a touch of summer magic, anything can happen. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

Cole and Laila Are Just Friends by Bethany Turner — Cole and Laila have been inseparable since they could crawl. And they’ve never thought about each other that way. Except for when they have. Rarely. Once in a while, sure. But seriously . . . hardly ever. If When Harry Met Sally had a quippy literary love child with Gilmore Girls’ Luke and Lorelai, you’d get Cole and Laila. Just . . . don’t tell them that. (Contemporary Romance from Thomas Nelson Fiction [Harper Collins])

Western:

Toward the Dawn by Mary Connealy — Two people marry for convenience then strike out to find happiness…and find danger instead. Together, they must confront the perils from their pasts to forge a future with hope and the promise of love. (Western from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

Historical Romance:
Rocky Mountain Journey by Misty M Beller — To fulfill a dying wish, Faith Collins masquerades as a man to find the woman who once saved her father’s life. On her journey through the Rockies, she teams up with a man in search of his brother, and together they must navigate the treacherous terrain while keeping Faith’s identity a secret and their growing affection at bay. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

When Plans Go Awry by Denise M Colby Olivia Carmichael escapes her past to be the next schoolmarm in a small ranching community in California. Her plan? Live a quiet spinster life, alone, never to depend on anyone ever again. Luke Taylor selected a mail-order bride, a necessity to help raise his two younger sisters, and the only way he knew to protect his heart. His plans don’t include being responsible for the beautiful new schoolmarm, who threatens his resolve between his need to stay away and his need to be near to make sure she stays safe. Along the way, neither feel much in control of their circumstances. Olivia’s carefully laid-out plans are challenged at every turn. Luke’s mail-order bride is not what he expected. Will Luke and Olivia learn to trust God’s plan for their lives? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Dreams on the Horizon by Penny Zeller — Mae Shepherdson’s dream of a school for the deaf has finally come to fruition. All is going well until she receives devastating news: the railroad wants to build a spur through the property where the Horizon School for the Deaf is located. Landon Bennick is accustomed to obeying his father’s orders and has assisted with the building of many railroad spurs, and the newest in Horizon should be no exception. However, things grow complicated when he falls in love with Mae, a soft-spoken teacher at the Horizon School for the Deaf—the same school blocking the railroad’s progress. When nefarious characters bent on seeing the railroad project succeed begin to threaten innocent lives, will Landon intervene and save the woman who has claimed his heart? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:
Hidden in the Night by Elizabeth Goddard — At the behest of her ailing mother, former FBI special agent Ivy Elliott arrives in Alaska to secure an unpublished Jack London manuscript kept secreted away for decades. But when she arrives, she learns the manuscript is gone–taken by the granddaughter of the woman who possessed it. Ivy sets off in pursuit, not just to save the manuscript but to save the vulnerable girl, who was previously trafficked and has no idea what she’s getting herself into. Joining forces with Alaska State Trooper Nolan Long, Ivy must battle a blizzard, sabotage, and the worst of an Alaskan winter as the search goes on. But every answer they find only raises more questions–and the danger to their lives and to the missing girl may only be the tip of the iceberg. (Romantic Suspense from Revell)

Suspicious Homicide by Elizabeth Goddard — When Finnley Wilbanks is run off a mountainside road, it confirms her worst fears—her father was murdered. With her life hanging in the balance, she turns to bodyguard and investigator Caine Honor for protection. As they work together to solve the mystery behind her father’s death, danger stalks their every move. And keeping Finnley alive long enough to find answers might be Caine’s hardest mission yet. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Celebrity Pastor by Creston Mapes — Pastor Neil Gentry embarked on his ministry with genuine intentions, unwavering passion, and undeniable charisma. As his influence grew, so did his fame. Vine & Branches Church became one of the fastest growing in the world. Soon, Pastor Gentry and his wife Becky resembled royalty, enjoying fame and power—and basking in the adoration of their devoted followers. Beneath the glitz and glamor, however, whispers of misconduct began to surface. As the allure of popularity and power consume the Gentrys, they find themselves plummeting into the abyss of moral compromise. With the weight of their actions threatening to shatter everything they’ve built, one dire question remains: can anything or anyone break the spell before the unthinkable happens? (Suspense from Rooftop Press)

Colorado Mountain Kidnapping by Cate Nolan — A cryptic phone call sends Isabelle Weaver running from armed intruders—with her daughter and best friend’s baby under her care. Nowhere is safe and no one can be trusted…except former army ranger Adam Dalton. Together, they must uncover a kidnapper’s motives while protecting the children. But as danger tracks them through the mountains, can they outwit a criminal mastermind before they all lose their lives? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Children’s Picture Books:

Would You Rather: Bible Water Adventures by Jerah Alvarado — Would you rather cruise on Noah’s Ark with stinky animals? Or would you rather be in a huge storm with Jesus asleep in your boat? Choose from fourteen different Bible water adventures the one you would rather experience! (Children’s Picture Books from Mt Zion Ridge Press)

 

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

The Filbert Ridge Miracle by Tamelia Aday — It was October 7, 1967. The festival in Filbert Ridge, Oregon came early. Town history and the lives of its citizens changed forever. That was the day little Stephen McMillan disappeared. (Literary Contemporary)

The Elder by Roger E Bruner — How can an elderly man regain his sense of worth once his one big success fades and God doesn’t seem to have other plans for him? (Contemporary General)

Bright Lights by Lisa Phillips, Rebecca Reed, Gina Conroy and Andrea Christenson — Four Christian Fiction Romance novels
from Christian fiction’s hottest contemporary romance authors. (Contemporary Romance)

Visible by Darlene M. Corbett — Rachel Karem, a 55-year-old widowed therapist, runs a group for five “stuck” professionals, and along the way, she explores obstacles interfering in life’s journey, ventures out to a Tango Dance Studio, and encounters an older, attractive gentleman. (Contemporary Romance)

Flat Deception by Paige Edwards — Falsely accused of equine doping, Lady Sophie Henderson must prove her innocence. In a world where people are willing to do anything to win, it’s impossible to know who to trust. (Romantic Suspense)

Justice Delayed by Sarah Hamaker — After serving her time, a convicted murderer tries to clear her name with the help of a washed-up investigative reporter. (Romantic Suspense)

Billionaire Sheriff on the Move by Bonita Y. McCoy — Bernadette has known Wade for years. Shoot, he even saved her life, once. So, when Wade moves back to town and wants more than just a simple friendship, Bernadette must face a new decision and an old fear. Can she overcome her past and open her heart to a new kind of love? (Contemporary Romance)

Disappearance in Pinecraft by Lenora Worth — Her sister has disappeared…and now her life is on the line. (Amish Romance)

Author Background for A Spring at The Greenbrier

by Sandra Merville Hart

In A Spring at The Greenbrier, Book 7 in Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts Series, Marilla, our heroine, is as desperate as her mother to find healing for her younger sister’s polio. When the doctor recommends daily bathing in the sulphur springs, her family cannot afford the cost. Marilla transfers to the bath wing at The Greenbrier where her new boss allows her to bring her sister at the end of each day after the guests have finished their bathing sessions. It makes for a long day yet the sacrifice is worth her exhaustion if the springs can help her ten-year-old sister.

The Greenbrier, a beautiful and elegant resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, first received its fame from healthy benefits of drinking the sulphur springs and bathing in its waters.

Both the hero and heroine in A Spring at The Greenbrier have younger sisters who can benefit from heated spring baths.

The bulk of my research for this story was for the springs and what illnesses benefit from them. I had to discover the illnesses for which doctors recommended the baths historically.

Soothing soaks in hot springs are recommended even today. They can boost blood circulation, reduce pain, improve skin conditions, reduce stress, decrease inflammation in joints, and detoxify the body.

Most resort guests in the early days drank tumblers of the water before each meal. A resort doctor in the 1800s cautioned taking a maximum of 12 glasses daily. Health benefits for the bowels, liver, kidneys, and skin most often appeared between three to six weeks. The resort began to sell it in bottles at drug stores. It was labelled as A Natural Laxative.

Major renovations were done by new owners for a grand reopening in September of 1913. Marilla, our heroine, begins working at the Women’s Department of the new bath wing. Female guests enjoyed heated sulphur spring baths in bathing rooms. Doctors sent their wealthy patients to the springs with a recommended regimen of bathing that might also include drinking the spring water. The temperature of the water, the frequency, and the length of the baths were set by their doctor.

Folks suffering from a variety of ailments sought benefits from the spring waters, including gout, rheumatism, arthritis, neuritis, dyspepsia, jaundice, scurvy, hay fever, malaria, bronchitis, asthma, and chronic diseases of the skin, stomach, bowels, and liver.

Mineral waters can harm people with aneurisms in the heart and large arteries, cancer, tubercular consumption, and some brain complaints.

The springs were of great benefit for folks suffering from chronic complaints. These benefits happened so gradually that patients started to feel better “without being able to account for it.”

So there were a lot of conditions to choose from for my two ailing girls in my story.

A Spring at The Greenbrier is a nostalgic story set in 1914. I invite you to read the whole series!

Point of Danger by Irene Hannon

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Triple Threat Series, Book 1

Eve Reilly discovers a package on her porch—and it’s ticking. She’s received threats before due to her honesty on hard-hitting topics as a radio show host but this scares her.

The police detective assigned to the case is Brent Lange. The sheer volume of threats from callers into Eve’s radio program have him on edge. As danger escalates, so does the danger to his heart. His past will keep him from pursuing a relationship but he has enough on his plate trying to protect her.

Characters are likeable, relatable, and realistic. Escalating danger at every turn kept me on the edge of my seat.

A page turner! Plan on staying up late to finish this one.

Highly recommend for readers of suspense!

Amazon

A Deep Divide by Kimberley Woodhouse

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Secrets of the Canyon, Book 1

Heiress Emma Grace McMurray hopes her job as a Harvey Girl will disguise her from those seeking her hand in marriage—and her life. She never feels safe, even in the remote Grand Canyon location.

Ray Watkins arrives in the Grand Canyon with several of his father’s employees. He will inherit his father’s business, yet he yearns for another career. The great wealth his father has amassed only leaves him hungry for more riches, an attitude that worries Ray. He’d love to court his waitress, Emma Grace, but her reserved manner discourages him.

Emma Grace doesn’t trust men—with good reason. Ray doesn’t seem like her father and his employees. Five years is a long time to run. She must trust someone. Can she trust Ray?

I was immediately drawn into the story by a gripping Prologue. Emma Grace’s plight grew worse with each twist and turn. The characters are likeable and believable. Attitudes fit the time period.

There are many surprises in the action-packed drama. I couldn’t put it down.

A definite page-turner!

Recommend! I will look for more by this author.

Amazon