Julie Arduini's Blog

Behind the Scenes of Clean Sweep — A Story Close to My Heart

Behind the Scenes of Clean Sweep — A Story Close to My Heart

I’m so excited to share more about Clean Sweep, my first novella in the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series—a delightful multi-author collaboration featuring Leah Atwood, Robin Bayne, JoAnn Durgin, Dawn Kinzer, Lisa Prysock, and Lori Soard. With new releases every other month through 2026, this series is a treasure trove of small-town charm, faith-filled romance, and matchmaking mischief.

Why This Story Matters to Me

When I was invited to contribute to Dogwood Creek, I knew I wanted to bring a piece of Ohio, my home for the past two decades, into the fictional Tennessee town. It’s something I love doing in multi-author projects, just as I often spotlight Upstate New York in my solo novels. These places have shaped me, and I enjoy weaving their spirit into my stories.

In Clean Sweep, you’ll meet Abbi Gearheart, a woman rebuilding her life after a painful breakup. She starts a cleaning business in Dogwood Creek, and through her journey, we see humor, healing, and unexpected grace. Seth Chamberlin, a beloved coach and teacher, is also navigating his own emotional terrain. Their paths cross thanks to Alicia Caruso—the matchmaker I chose to feature—who gently nudges them toward something more.

Faith, Forgiveness, and Fiction

One of the most powerful threads in this story is forgiveness. A definition I heard years ago stayed with me and became a cornerstone of this novella. Writing Abbi and Seth’s journeys challenged me personally, especially as I faced my own season of healing while waiting for cataract surgeries. There were days I could barely see the screen, and I’m so grateful to the friends who helped me polish the manuscript.

This story isn’t just fiction; it’s a reflection of real-life grace. The themes of second chances, quiet matchmaking, and teen mentorship are all close to my heart. I’ve spent years working with teens, and I loved bringing characters like Arianna, Bella, and Grayson to life.

Join the Journey

If you enjoy clean romance with a touch of humor, heartfelt faith, and small-town warmth, I hope Clean Sweep blesses you as much as it blessed me to write. I’d love for you to be part of Abbi and Seth’s journey.

Purchase Clean Sweep

Read the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series

Fiction Finder November 2025 New Releases

November 2025 New Releases

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

Amish Romance:

A Daughter’s Choice by Kelly S. Irvin — Henrietta Miller loves animals—especially her goats. She wants to marry and have children someday, but right now her goal is to have her own business selling snacks made from goat’s milk and goat’s soaps. Against her the wishes of her father–who’s also the bishop—she applies for a job as a veterinary assistant to earn money. Then newcomer Nicholas Byler snatches the job out from under her—or so it seems to Hen. Now Nicholas is treating Hen’s beloved animals as if he knows more than her. Hen turns her frustrations toward expanding her business to include wool-producing goats, even while her aunt hatches matchmaking plans—with Nicholas Byler, no less. (Amish Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Biblical:

Loss and Loyalty – Moabites by Christine Dillon — What makes someone family—blood, love, or something more? Arielle believed she was an Israelite—until her brother confessed the truth: she was found as an infant on their doorstep in Moab. After tragedy strikes and the men of her household are snatched away, Arielle must leave the only land she’s ever known and any hope of finding her birth family to follow her adopted family to Bethlehem. (Biblical Fiction, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Clean Sweep by Julie Arduini — Sometimes the messiest moments lead to the most miraculous grace. A tender story of grace, second chances, and the kind of love that only grows when hearts surrender. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Royal Runaway’s Holiday by Mandy Boerma — Can the princess and the reporter overcome the ancient laws and royal protocol standing between them, or is heartbreak the only outcome? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Christmas in Shady Springs by Sarah Anne Crouch — Set in the heart of small-town Arkansas, A Christmas in Shady Springs is a sweet Christian romance about love that holds fast, plans that fall apart, and grace that shines even brighter when everything else goes wrong. (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Clearing the Cowboy’s Name by Elle E. Kay — Accused of stealing her first edition Austen. Guilty of stealing her heart. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Logan’s Legacy by Susan Anne Mason — He ran from commitment for years – until he met the one woman who made him want to stay. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Home for the Ranger by Audrey Wick — Texas park ranger Shane Hutton must choose his future: the opportunity he’s always wanted or the family he’s always needed. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Under the Mistletoe by Penny Zeller — A small-town adventure, unexpected romance, and Christmas cheer. He’s a nerdy tourist needing a vacation. She’s a bed and breakfast employee with a broken heart. Love is the last thing they expect to find this Christmas. (Contemporary Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Crime Mystery:

Eight Days Anxious by Luana Ehrlich — When ex-con Jason Brennan takes a senator hostage, Mylas Grey has eight days to find Brennan’s missing wife and daughter. If Mylas fails, the senator will lose his life. But things are much more complicated than that. As the clock ticks down, Mylas must navigate his way through a maze of political ambition, moral corruption, and judicial misconduct, challenging his investigative skills and newfound faith, but ultimately drawing him closer to Whitney. (Crime/Mystery, Independently Published)

General Contemporary:

Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis — Dylan Turner’s quiet life unravels on the day of her dad’s funeral—when she finds out he’s not her biological father. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on a cross-country journey, confronting family secrets and her own identity. (General Contemporary from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Penguin Random House])

Every Captive Freed by B.D. Lawrence, Shannon McNear, and Angela D. Shelton — Three Novellas about human trafficking. This collection is one of three dealing with “brave” topics Christians often face in the world today. (General Contemporary [Novella Collection], Independently Published)

General Historical:

Even If I Perish by Terrie Todd — Music teacher Mary Cornish volunteers to escort a group of 15 girls from England to Canada as part of Britain’s World War II child evacuation program. All is well aboard the SS City of Benares until September 17, 1940. With a storm brewing in the North Atlantic, a German U-boat releases its torpedo and breaches the ship’s hull. Do the Nazis know ninety children are on board? Based on a miraculous true story of courage in the face of impossible odds. (Historical from Mountain Brook Ink)

Historical Romance:

No Plan At All by Denise M. Colby — Two strangers. One journey. A love neither expected. Sometimes the best life is the one we never planned. A tender tale of courage, redemption, and love strong enough to change the course of two hearts forever. (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

To Reveal a Reckless Love by Robin Lee Hatcher — When love feels reckless, faith can lead the way. A story of second chances, steadfast love, and the courage to follow where God leads. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

On the Edge of Trust by Patricia Bradley — Sometimes the closer you get to justice, the deadlier it becomes. (Romantic Suspense from Revell)

Midnight Masquerade by Elle E. Kay — Two federal agents with trust issues must infiltrate a charity masquerade ball to stop a human trafficking operation that funds terrorism. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Mac by Melanie D. Snitker — Fame has its price—and someone’s ready to collect. As danger closes in and secrets come to light, Mac must rely on every skill, instinct, and ounce of resolve he has to protect the woman he’s realizing he can’t live without. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner — Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:

First Glow of Illumination by Demi Griffin — Every ending leads to a beginning. All hope seems lost when darkness pushes against the light and the Realms are in danger of being swallowed up by the Shadow Realm. Will the Realm Warriors and Realm Binders wake up from their cultural stupor to defend what has been given them? What will it take for them to recognize their King, trust in his plan, and crown him victorious in the end? (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

Young Adult:

The One You See by Melissa Knight — Seventeen-year-old Miranda’s world involves wealth and Paris vacations while Zac comes with a past she will never understand, yet in a single lapse of judgement their worlds collide, leading Miranda to faith in the God who truly sees her. (Young Adult, Independently Published)

 

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

Christmas Rodeo Killer by Sami A. Abrams — To catch a murderer…he’ll make himself a target. (Romantic Suspense)

Wasted by Jerusha Agen — She always follows the rules. But what are the rules for murder? (Romantic Suspense)

A Riddle in the Lonesome October (A Rae Riley Mystery) by JPC Allen — How do you survive a season of fear? (Cozy Mystery)

Curveball on the Dance Floor by Karin Beery — Chris can handle a curveball at the diamond. Can she handle one on the dance floor? (Contemporary Romance)

The Accident by Kenneth Bliss — A psi EMT responds to an accident which he discovers an “impossible” psi child and the dark agent sent to recover him. (Speculative Fiction)

To Have and to Hold by Deb L. Brown — When life doesn’t go according to plan, perfectionist Amelia must trade control for faith—and find joy in the beautiful mess of becoming a mother. (General Contemporary)

Riches Beyond Measure by Mary Connealy — When they leave the ranch in search of stolen treasure, will the spark between them survive the perils ahead? (Western Romance)

My Heart’s for You by Jan Rae Johnson — Kaitlyn Monroe is driven by two desires—find a job and find a soul mate. (Contemporary Romance)

That Was Me by Rick Tester — When you look back on your life, realize it was God… then suddenly discover why. (Mystery)

Pretzels & Pirouettes: The Baby is the Gift by Lynn U. Watson — Meet Clara’s great-great-great-granddaughter, motorcycle-riding, ballet-dancing Lyydi Jager. She’ll pirouette straight into your heart, and you’ll ride right into this Christmas pageant at Our Savior Church. (Contemporary Romance)

Changing Seasons by Sue A. Fairchild

Changing Seasons by Sue A. Fairchild

Don’t we all simply want to find God’s purpose for our lives?

I certainly did, for the longest time. In college, I studied graphic design and after schooling worked five years in that field. I’ve always been artistic and creating ads, church bulletins, and various other printing projects utilized my skills and let my creative side soar. But in 2001 when 9/11 occurred, I lost my job and couldn’t find another one. Design and the arts were the last thing people wanted to spend their money on.

When I did acquire a job, it was as a secretary in an insurance agency. It paid the bills, and I liked the people. Then they asked if I’d like to be an insurance agent. I didn’t, but they agreed to pay for the fees, so I did it and worked for the next fifteen years in that capacity. The job was far from creative, but it paid the bills.

I chose options for my career and life based on what I could do, how it would pay the bills, and to create a stable life. But those creative juices kept backing up inside, wanting to get out.

That’s how Nora Harper feels in my novel Changing Seasons. Nora senses something is missing in her life. She’s tried different things, but nothing seems to stick.

Nora was a secondary character in my book Changing Tides. She is a tourist in the Outer Banks who meets my protagonist Gabe. Readers are told Nora is also dealing with some traumatic issue, but I didn’t tell them what. In fact, I wasn’t sure myself until I began to contemplate what her story would entail.

As I considered this, I met a woman who was writing a small book for people caring for their loved ones who were suffering from dementia. She had worked for years as a caregiver and wanted to create something to help others with the difficult task. Although I have never experienced a loved one with dementia, her book opened my eyes to the true challenges brought on by this disease. I knew then this would be one of the roadblocks my character Nora would have to face.

Nora returns from the Outer Banks and is immediately thrust back into a scenario she would have never picked for herself—a father with dementia and a family business she has no desire to run. Her days of making carefree choices for her own benefit are gone. She begins to wonder, like we all do, what is God’s plan for me?

Along the way, I added in bits and pieces I had learned from my friend’s book about what it’s like to live with a person with dementia and how best to maneuver various situations. Readers have said my writing about this area feels genuine—a praise I will gladly accept as I sought to be true to the struggles caregivers face.

In 2014, I decided insurance was no longer for me, and I quit my office job to edit and write full-time. I know this is the purpose God has given me, and I’m glad to be living it today. Without God’s call on my life, I wouldn’t be able to help others in ways I never imagined I would with my artistic degree—editing novels, designing book covers, and teaching others how to do the same.

Back Cover Blurb:

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Nora Harper returns from her blissful week away in the Outer Banks to find things have not gotten better in her world. In fact, they may have gotten worse.

As Nora deals with her father’s dementia, the end of her long-time relationship, and the additional duties at their family’s funeral home business, she feels trapped. She had wanted so much more for her life than to be stuck in the same patterns of her father, grandfather, and now brother. She doesn’t want to be a funeral home director. She wants to take photos, to see the world, to live life … not deal with death every day.

As her father’s disease worsens, an unusual request sparks a new idea within Nora’s heart and mind. Is there a place for her passion and her responsibilities to work in harmony to create a new season in her life?

Purchase here.

Sue A. Fairchild is an editor, writer, and speaker. In 2024, Sue traditionally published two Christian Contemporary novels, one of which, Changing Tides, won honorable mention in the AWSA Golden Scrolls awards. When she is not writing her own books for God’s kingdom, Sue loves working with clients who are working toward the greater good of sharing God’s message in this world. Learn more about Sue on her website sueafairchild.wordpress.com or on Instagram @suefairchildedits or email her to talk about working together sueafairchild74@gmail.com.

Clean Sweep Available for Pre-Order

Ta dah!!!! In six weeks where I released Building Hearts, had two eye surgeries, and attended/hosted two conferences for women, I give you the sixth release in the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series, Clean Sweep.

The series also features Leah Atwood, Robin Bayne, JoAnn Durgin, Dawn Kinzer, Lisa Prysock, and Lori Soard. We release a novella every other month through 2026. Clean Sweep is my first submission. I will release a second in September 2026.

I’m thrilled to introduce you to Abbi and Seth.

Sometimes the messiest moments lead to the most miraculous grace.

After a public breakup leaves Abbi Gearheart humiliated and heartbroken, she escapes to Dogwood Creek, Tennessee, hoping to rebuild her life far from the spotlight—and even farther from athletes. With her new cleaning business and the gentle encouragement of stained glass artist Alicia Caruso and her matchmaking family, Abbi begins to find peace in the quiet rhythms of small-town life.

Seth Chamberlin is a beloved coach, teacher, and mentor at Dogwood Creek High. His faith runs deep, but so do the wounds from a strained relationship with his father. When he meets Abbi, he’s drawn to her strength and vulnerability, but she’s made it clear that friendship is all she’s willing to offer.

A powerful sermon on forgiveness challenges them both. For Abbi, to release the pain of betrayal, and for Seth, to seek reconciliation with the father he thought he’d lost. As they walk separate paths toward healing, could God be gently sweeping them toward something more?

A tender story of grace, second chances, and the kind of love that only grows when hearts surrender.

Small-town charm and rediscovered dreams are always in season in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee.

I wanted to incorporate Ohio into the story, as in my own series, I use Upstate NY settings, but I reside in Ohio. Each novella features a matchmaker, and I chose Alicia Caruso. She hosts the matchmakers at her farmhouse, and she’s also a stained-glass artist.

Abbi’s new to Dogwood Creek and has a new cleaning business called Clean Sweep. It’s her way of saying goodbye to her old life in sports marketing and creating a fresh start after heartbreak and humiliation. Alicia is Abbi’s first client, as the matchmaker broke her wrist. I also incorporate the Caruso family in the story.

Alicia is married to Luca, who is the bank president in Dogwood Creek. They have twin sixteen-year-old daughters, Arianna and Bella. It was so fun to feature the family, as I married into an Italian family, and I have a huge heart for young people. I served in youth ministry for years, and I miss it.

What you don’t want to miss is meeting Abbi and Seth. I believe you will love them, and the Dogwood Creek residents. Clean Sweep can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend the series. These ladies crafted a beautiful Tennessee town full of lovely people, places, and romance.

To pre-order Clean Sweep: https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Sweep-Contemporary-Christian-Matchmakers-ebook/dp/B0FVWDWSH1

To purchase the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series Books 1-5: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DS1WPYMK

The Oddball Ornaments by Terry Overton

The Oddball Ornaments: The Story of Christmas

What motivated you to write The Oddball Ornaments?

Christmas is such a wonderful celebration of the birth of Christ, and in our home, we decorate early in the season. Sitting by the tree, I wondered to myself, “If the ornaments could talk, what would they want children to know about Christmas? Would they be able to tell children the real meaning of Christmas?” I picked out several ornaments, wondering what each might say and what their characters would be like. This is how the idea came about.

In keeping with my background in special education and psychology, where my career focused on helping children with special needs and their families, the ornaments were not perfect. Some had paint missing or glitter, while others were the last remaining ones of their set of ornaments, each with a unique personality. The Tree Topper in the story is an Angel. With the guidance of the Angel, Nutcracker takes the long journey down to the bottom of the tree where a manger is placed. The scene of the manger is where the Nutcracker learns the true meaning of Christmas, which is not found in the decorations or the tree. Nutcracker learns of the birth of Christ and returns up the tree to tell his friends, the other Oddball Ornaments.

The ornaments are tucked away in the attic each year, but when they smell Thanksgiving dinner cooking, they know they will soon be taken down from the attic and placed on the tree. They begin to talk to each other with excitement and listen closely to hear the footsteps approaching the attic. Soon, they know the humans will lift the box down from the shelf and take them out of the box to set free on the tree.

In this first book of the two-book series, the characters also learn about death and that those who believe in Christ will go to Heaven. In book two of the series, the Oddball Ornaments learn about the prodigal son and the meaning of forgiveness.

When the attic box opens and the ornaments awaken, one brave Nutcracker sets out to discover what Christmas truly means. Check these books out by following these links:

The Oddball Ornaments and The Story of Christmas https://a.co/d/9scPdOR

The Oddball Ornaments and The Story of Forgiveness https://a.co/d/cHIUfjR

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology. Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean. She has two children, seven grandchildren, one great granddaughter. She seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals. Her books have won the Mom’s Choice Award, Christian Indie Award, Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Pencraft Award, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her writing examines real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels.  

Stay in touch and see the newest releases by following:

https://www.authorterryoverton.com

https://linktr.ee/overtont

Guess Why God Made the Rainbow by Karen Ferguson

Guess Why God Made the Rainbow and other Questions for Kids  

I recently welcomed my third grandchild into the world, and within a month saw my third book-baby released, just in time to dedicate to this beautiful, precious new life! Guess Why God Made the Rainbow is book #3 in the 7-book Questions for Kids series. I’ve been blessed to dedicate each book to a newly born grandchild, and I’ve told my daughters more than once I would love to dedicate each future book to a grandchild. They’re on board with this, thankfully!

Grandparenting is a special gift; and children are a gift from the Lord. As parents and grandparents we are tasked with the responsibility to train our children and grandchildren up in the Lord (Proverbs 22:6). This is why I’m especially grateful to write this children’s book series. These books take young readers on exciting Bible adventures, entertaining their imaginations and building their biblical literacy. These are books the whole family can enjoy. They not only provide a special bonding opportunity between parents, grandparents and kids, but they have eternal impact, because God promises His Word will not return void (Isaiah 55:11).

With the release of this new book, I thought it the perfect time to introduce the main character, Lucy Lu.

Here she is….

Who is Lucy?

Lucy is a colorful, creatively curious first-grader who is starting to have serious questions about life and God that she brings to her trusted advisor, Papa Joe. With bright red hair pulled tight into pigtails, sea-green eyes, and a freckled nose, Lucy craves adventure and clear answers to many questions. She gets both as she uses her imagination to dive into exciting Bible adventures with her Papa!

Who is her most important relationship?

Her warm and wise grandfather, Papa Joe, who is physically limited by his mobility scooter but by no means spiritually limited. In fact, it’s Papa Joe who Lucy comes to with her questions about God. You see, Lucy has always been told that God loves her, but like most kids as they get older, they experience things that are hard and troubling that often create a sort of cognitive dissonance between life circumstances and an understanding of God’s goodness and unconditional love. But Lucy came to the right person. Her trusted advisor, Papa Joe, patiently takes time to reassure Lucy, and with wisdom and clarity takes her straight to the Bible for answers to her tough questions. But Lucy has such an active imagination she doesn’t just read the story, she jumps right into it, helping bring the Bible to life for young readers!

What sort of Bible Adventures do they go on?

Back to Creation, back to the Garden, and back to Noah’s Ark, so far! Each book covers a unique period in Bible history important to building a firm faith foundation; and also answers relevant questions for kids about God’s love, family and diversity, and the real meaning of the rainbow.

What Bible Adventures are in the future for Lucy?

There are at least four more Bible adventures coming in this series! These books take young readers on a chronological journey through the Bible to discover the important people, places, and events that shaped history and shape our faith in God. You can stay up-to-date on future Bible adventures by signing up for my monthly newsletter at karenferg.com

Do you have a special young reader in your life? The third book in the Questions for Kids series is now available! Grab your copy of Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop and wherever books are sold.

Karen Ferguson is a writer, podcast host, and author of the Questions for Kids picture book series published through Ambassador International. A lover of words, family, animals, and Jesus, Karen is a passionate advocate for truth that transforms lives. Her background in K-8 education inspires her mission to write stories that grab and hold young readers’ attentions, teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths, and His unchanging love for them. She wants every child to know their life matters.

Through her company, Illuminate Communications, Karen creates online content, digital products and bold merchandise designed to touch the heart, spread the Good News, and nourish the mind, body, and spirit. She self-published her first book in 2017, a 21-day devotional called Breath of Life: Living God’s Promise of Peace in the 7 Dimensions of Wellness. Her Questions for Kids picture book series continues to grow, with at least four more books coming soon!

Karen is married to her best friend. They have two grown daughters, a growing tribe of dearly loved grandchildren, and one crazy golden retriever furbaby. Her favorite part of the week is eating dark chocolate and spending time with her family exploring new places.

Fiction Finder October2025 New Releases

October 2025 New Releases

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

Biblical:

Rescued Heart: The Story of Sarah by Angela Hunt — A master of biblical research, Angela Hunt delivers a series starter that transports readers to the Old Testament world of Sarah and Abraham, making this novel a perfect read for those who love Francine Rivers, Mesu Andrews, Connilyn Cossette, and Jill Eileen Smith. (Biblical/Historical from Bethany House)

Leading Philippi by Jenifer Jennings — In the raging sea of fear, Epaphroditus finds his faith. (Biblical/Historical, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter — She inherits the bookshop of her dreams . . . But she has to run it with the ex she vowed never to speak with again. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson])

Trying to Save Christmas by Dawn Kinzer — A new teacher trying to save Christmas for a grieving student and his guardian brother risks losing her heart to them both. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Heart to Protect by Judith McNees — Can two grieving hearts find healing with each other…and God? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Christmas in Granite Harbor by Candice Sue Patterson — Small-town traditions, a Maine Coon, and a decades-old mystery knit hearts together this Christmas. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Who Stirs Up the Sea by Deborah Raney — So many secrets between them. But when the truth comes out, will it drive them apart? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Two Hearts, One Piano by Catherine Richmond — Ten years ago, rock star Alan Wolfe trashed Maren’s life. Now his brother is on her doorstep, asking about the baby. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Cozy Mystery:

Troubled Truffles by Leslie Lantrip — Ruby Starr breathes a sigh of relief that all is well in the whimsical town of Iris Cove, but while making a routine bakery delivery, she’s shocked to discover a dead body inside the new bookshop. She assures everyone that she will never again be involved in sleuthing, but with clues all around, will her inquisitive mind be able to comply? (Cozy Mystery from Trilogy Christian Publishing)

The Last Scam by Jean Rezab — Courtney’s lifelong dream is finally within her grasp, but when a guest turns up dead during the inn’s very first week, her perfect plans turn into chaos. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)

General Contemporary:

Tangled Roots by Jessica Brodie — When newspaper editor Tiff Steadman’s ex-convict brother returns seeking reconciliation, she must choose between protecting the respectable life she’s built and risking everything to embrace the messy grace of family forgiveness. (General Contemporary from Valor Publishing Group)

The Bridge by Shanna Hatfield — The fate of strangers intertwines when a man contemplating suicide commandeers a bridge on Christmas Eve, forcing everyone into an unexpected detour from their holiday plans. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Every Life Treasured by Hannah Hood Lucero, Aubrey Reiss Taylor, and Jennifer Q. Hunt – Three Novellas about the value of life. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

The Song Awakens by Linda Sammaritan — One moment of temptation. Years of separation. How much of the truth does she dare to confess? (General Contemporary/Women’s Fiction from Winged Publications)

General Historical:

To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau — Inspired by a true story, “To Outwit Them All” is told from the perspective of the only woman in George Washington’s Revolutionary group of citizen spies known as the Culper Ring. (General Historical from Iron Stream Media)

Historical Romance:

A Heart To Treasure by Dienece Darling — The vicar’s son and the draper’s daughter have fought against all odds to be together, but with less than a fortnight to their wedding day, a coming storm will shatter everything. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

A Very English Christmas by Marguerite Gray, Carole Lehr Johnson, and Carrie Turansky — Celebrate the Season with three timeless tales inspired by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Beatrix Potter. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Love on the Horizon by Penny Zeller — Return to Horizon, Idaho, for Timothy Shepherdson’s story and meet newcomer, Mags, in this tender romance that reminds us that God is the author of new beginnings. (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Military Suspense:

Tick, Tick, Tick … Boom by Felicia Ferguson — With her marriage to clinical psychologist Matt in shambles, Army CID Officer Gabby Carmichael wakes up to a bomb threat. They reluctantly work together to find the bomber, but as pressure mounts, which will explode first? The bomb or their marriage? (Military Suspense from Salt & Light Publishing)

Novella (Romance):

Christmas on the Islands by Annette M. Irby — Washington Island Christmas series novellas all in one place! Visit Puget Sound and the Salish Sea islands in this series of holiday novellas! Enjoy getting to know new characters, with some cameo visits from previous friends. Here you’ll find heart-warming scenes, layered family dynamics, romance, and hope in Jesus. (Romance Novella from Prism Effect Publishing)

A Christmas Inheritance by Myra Johnson, Delia Latham, and Tanya Stowe — Three Christmas stories in one! “His Christmas Refuge:” He came home to leave it all behind. She’s convinced he’ll run again. “A Montana Christmas Promise:” He gave everything to the land. She came only to let it go. “The Prodigal Preacher’s Christmas Homecoming:” A story of redemption, brotherhood, and love reborn under the gentle hand of grace. (Romance Novella, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

Mistletoe and Malice by Lori DeJong — He’s sworn to protect her life … but guarding his heart may be his biggest challenge. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)

Fatal Past by Sarah Hamaker — When a pediatrician foils an attempted child abduction, she’s thrust into a dangerous game in which she must rely on the help of her former boyfriend to stay alive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Defending You by Robin Patchen — She stumbled onto a deadly secret, and the man she once wronged is the only one who can keep her alive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Texas Christmas Cover-Up by Terri Reed — A widowed FBI profiler must turn to her ex, a commanding Police Chief to protect her child and solve a cold case. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:

Dust and Ashes by Demi Griffin — Even mistakes and failures were folded into the king’s plan! (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

 

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

Unexpected by Kimberly Keagan — The heirs of Denwall Department Stores find unexpected love In the glittering era of the Gilded Age. (Historical Romance)

Where Secrets End by Rebecca Lake — One man’s obsession. One woman’s past. One chance to survive. (Romantic Suspense)

But There Were Signs by Georgia Curtis Ling — When one of their own is found dead, four pastors’ wives–turned amateur sleuths are playing a deadly game of cat and mouse with a suspected killer in Appalachia. (Contemporary Suspense)

The Dreamer by Jenny Marcelene — To the Ends is an international adventure series helping children ages 6-10 cultivate a biblical worldview and spark prayer for the nations. (Children’s/Middle Grade Chapter Book)

Escaping the Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks — On the run through the mountains— with only each other to trust. (Romantic Suspense)

The Realm: The Awakening Begins by K Ross — In a world where dreams are more real than not, and harsh realities collide with visions of eternity, only one god can rule. (Supernatural Suspense)

Promise Me Tomorrow by Donna Jo Stone

Promise Me Tomorrow, a Fictional Look at Grief, Love, and Growth  by Donna Jo Stone

Grief is universal, yet isolating. Novels and stories about loss allow us to confront difficult emotions from a distance, by stepping into another person’s life, even if that person is fictional. It’s comforting to recognize that someone else (whether the characters, the author, or fellow readers) has felt something similar, and has survived.

Promise Me Tomorrow is a story about a family dealing with grief, but besides dealing with an impending loss, the main character, Nina, must handle the typical teen issues. She has the day to day of keeping up her grades, occasional fights with her best friend, and navigating first love.

My hands ached to cup his cheeks. I felt like a hundred-million hues. He was my deep violet and stormy blue, my calm forest green and happy yellow sunshine. I’d missed him.

She does all this while hoping to make an impact with her art (with the help of a rag-tag group of classmates who grow close as they work on the school mural project). She longs to make her mom proud. Typical teen stuff.

But Nina is not typical.

She struggles with communicating her feelings, and when her mother decides to forego further cancer treatments, Nina does not handle that decision well. At all. Processing this kind of tragedy is tough for anyone, let alone a teen on the autism spectrum.

At one point, she skips school to go—on her own—to her mother’s oncologist with the idea she can demand an audience with the doctor, even though skipping is “against the rules” and not something she would normally do. Predictably, Nina’s plan doesn’t work out. The doctor can’t tell her anything, and when Nina returns to school she’s caught.

The next morning at school, I marched straight to the office and turned in my signed note to the bored-looking student helper, a goth girl I hadn’t seen before. The receptionist, Mrs. Lily, was there, but withheld her usual friendly greeting. Instead, she ignored me and peered at a computer screen through her purple-framed glasses, her pinched mouth telegraphing disapproval. 

She shot me a sour look. “I didn’t expect to see you here. At least not for skipping.”

Before the skipping incident, I’d never, ever been sent to the principal’s office for breaking a rule. The opposite, in fact. I was the kind of girl trusted to bring notices and messages to the office staff. But that didn’t seem to matter. Pretty sure Mrs. Lily wouldn’t be sneaking me a package of gummy dots today.

I liked being an office pet better than a troublemaker.

Grief makes people act out, sometimes in unexpected ways.

The news of Mom’s terminal cancer affects the thoughts and behaviors of all the other people touched by the impending loss: Nina’s twin brother Will, who is also on the spectrum. Her dad, friends, family. And Nina’s mom.

There’s a lot at stake when time is ticking by.

Each character in Nina’s story deals with their overwhelming emotions in their own way, some with actions easily understood, and others with a response or behaviors that are puzzling. For example, Nina’s brother, Will, often does things that make no sense to those around him. But in a specific instance, the motivation behind his actions become clear to Nina, and she comes to understand it as his way of dealing with his mother’s illness.

We all process differently, and grief never fully disappears, but it does change over time, and it changes those who experience it. People (whether real people or characters, whether typical or non-typical) who go through great loss emerge from their trials changed. When we, as readers, travel with characters and read about how they do this, it gives us hope that we too can come out of the valley, survive the hardest things, and find healing.

I hope Nina’s story fosters compassion for those who process and express themselves a little differently, and I hope it helps grieving teens (and others) understand they are not alone in their pain, even when it seems no one understands.

About Promise Me Tomorrow

All sixteen-year-old autistic artist Nina thought about before was earning the privilege to paint the school mural, and possibly untangling her emotions about a certain boy. But then she found out about her mom’s terminal cancer. After that, nothing mattered except finding a miracle cure for Mom.

Small Town Contemporary YA with Sweet Romance

Available in ebook, print, and on Kindle Unlimited

Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F3TSVZGF

ACFW 2025 Carol Award Winner Donna Jo Stone writes southern-flavored fiction for the inspirational market. Her stories are often about people facing tough times, but she strives to write novels that leave the reader with a sense of hope. When she’s not writing, reading, or talking about writing or reading, she loves spending time with her family and friends or creating art. You can read her thoughts on books at her blog, or find writing advice at Almost an Author, where she writes the YA column.

Invite Donna Jo to speak with your group via zoom! Visit her website at donnajostone.com to find out how.

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Book Review: Restoring Love by Dawn Kinzer

Sometimes it takes more than hard work and determination to fix matters of the heart. When Hannah Bloom moves to Dogwood Creek, Tennessee, she’s determined to bring a fresh perspective to Candlescents, her Aunt Vicki’s struggling candle shop. Her happy childhood summers there fostered her deep love of creating pleasant, healing scents that evoke warm emotions and memories for others. Since she has no viable backup plan, Hannah prays her ideas breathe new life into the shop.

If Wyatt Stone can’t live up to his father’s expectations of joining the family legacy of professional, classical musicians, maybe he can earn the stubborn man’s respect. Skilled as a carpenter and passionate about working with his hands, Wyatt moves to Dogwood Creek to train with a master luthier who restores valuable stringed instruments. First, he must prove he has the patience and talent to perform the job well.

As shop neighbors, Hannah and Wyatt frequently cross paths. When he agrees to help with an important project in her store, spending time together is inevitable. Drawn to one another, their feelings begin to blossom amid unexpected challenges. Doing what’s right can sometimes be costly. Will they be able to overcome the daunting obstacles that stand in the way of their happily ever after?

Small-town charm and rediscovered dreams are always in season in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee.

This is the fifth installment of the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series, and Dawn Kinzer’s first visit to the fictional town as the author. Hopefully, you have read the series, featuring Lori Soard, JoAnn Durgin, and Lisa Prysock. My novella is up next in November, Clean Sweep. You can read these as standalones, but I hope you don’t. Every author and book has brought Dogwood Creek and their lovely residents to brilliant, small-town life.

Dawn Kinzer and Restoring Love is no exception. This time we meet Hannah, a sweet woman about to turn thirty. She helps her Aunt Vicki run Candlescents, and Hannah has great ideas to make the most of the store, candles, and space. Hannah is simply adorable, and I love the friendship she shares with Lauren, a matchmaker who runs the flower shop.

Wyatt Stone is a presence right off the bat. He’s new to Dogwood Creek as an apprentice for the town luthier, and their store is next to Candlescents. Although Wyatt is a gifted musician, his passion is more about restoring precious instruments, something that disappoints his demanding father to no end.

As the commercial neighbors interact, sparks of affection fly between Wyatt and Hannah. Hannah notes he keeps his distance when any talk about his family happens. As Wyatt agrees to help Hannah with Candlescents, an emergency sends him back to his hometown. Can Wyatt overcome the past and nail together a future with Hannah?

I turned the pages fast to find out, I was engrossed in this story. Dawn evoked tears when Wyatt faced his dad and a chance at reconciliation. The romance between Wyatt and Hannah was a sweet build, the kind that when the book is done makes you want to lay the book against your chest and sigh. It’s a well-done story with strong secondary characters like Aunt Vicki, Lauren, Aaron, and Merritt Stone.

My hope is you light a candle, shut off the world around you, and enjoy Restoring Love. I sure did.

Fiction Friday September 2025 New Releases

September 2025 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Biblical: Survival Secrets by Lana Christian — The Wise Men’s flight from Herod forces them to flee to the Wilderness of Paran to reach Egypt’s safety. But the trek will test their fledgling faith in ways they couldn’t have imagined. How much will they endure to protect their secrets, including what they know of Yeshua? (Biblical/Historical from Scrivenings Press)

Contemporary Romance: Building Hearts by Julie Arduini — Evan Hart has always felt the odd one out in a family of thriving siblings. When his reality show pitch is greenlit and he’s named co-producer, Evan sees a chance to finally belong within his family and the world watching them. Building with the Harts promises new beginnings and second chances until the network adds a wildcard: Shea Madden, a brooding co-producer with secrets of her own. (Contemporary Romance from Surrendered Scribe Media)

Old Town Symphony by Milla Holt — Kezia Blair believes true talent shouldn’t need shortcuts. But after years of singing backup and recording anonymous jingles, her shot at a real music career is slipping away. When a last-ditch audition lands her on Starbound, TV’s biggest reality show, Kezia faces a painful choice: chase stardom on someone else’s terms—or walk away for good. Zach Falconer created Starbound to launch fresh talent—not get tangled up with it. Burned by a fame-hungry ex, he’s determined to protect his show from scandal and his heart from pain. In an industry where image is everything, can they hold onto what matters most… or will success cost them the truth—and each other? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Restoring Love by Dawn Kinzer — A woman trying to revitalize a struggling candle shop and an apprentice learning to restore priceless instruments learn that sometimes it takes more than hard work and determination to fix matters of the heart. (Contemporary Romance Novella, Independently Published)

Heart and Soul by Nancy Lavo — Big city pastor makes an unwanted trip to small town Texas for a lesson in humility and finds an unexpected chance for love. (Contemporary Romance from Iron Stream Media)

An Irish Kiss by Carolyn Miller — Aurora Fairall—Rory to her friends—loves her jobs working at the village bookshop and the family castle-turned-boutique hotel, even if she sometimes wonders if this is all God has for her life. She knows she has much to be grateful for, but she wonders if the special Fairall legacy that sees its members struck by Cupid’s arrow has passed her by. Until she meets Aidan Quinn—not the actor, but an Australian guest on a genealogical mission to discover his ancestry—and sparks fly. Aidan never thought his visit to Ireland’s west coast would result in meeting a redheaded firecracker with a bewitching smile and pixie-like laughter. But obviously God knew better. And his quest to find his kin brings him into the warm embrace of this loud and loving family has helped heal his heart and gives hope that his future might be different to what he’d imagined. Until a secret from the past threatens everything he holds dear… (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Their Texas Christmas Redemption by Mindy Obenhaus — Back home at her family’s Texas ranch for the holidays, the last thing Audrey Caldwell expects to see is her ex-husband, Tyler, on her doorstep—with his orphaned niece. The sweet baby in his arms brings up painful memories that she’d rather forget, but when little Willow gets sick, Audrey can’t turn them away. She offers to care for the baby if Tyler agrees to do some construction projects on the ranch. As they work together on a community Christmas event, neither can deny their growing connection. Can they heal their deepest wounds and find their way back to the family they always wanted? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Framed with Love by Rebecca Reed — Photographing people gives Olivia Perez the jitters, but she’s determined to prove her friends’ loyalty isn’t unfounded. This secret celebrity wedding is do or die for their business. When her videographer quits, Olivia needs a replacement––fast. The diving instructor is the last person she expects will fit the bill. If only she’d curbed her tongue at their first meeting. Stirling “Mac” MacAllister isn’t ready to come out of hiding––or is he? When his Labrador’s antics bring him face to face with a dark-haired spitfire and her pet rabbit, sparks fly, and he begins to wonder if he wants more than his solitary, beach bum lifestyle. When Olivia invites Mac to be her videographer for an upcoming wedding, he dusts off his equipment, but soon discovers she needs more than his technical skills. A flooded yard forces the wedding indoors, and Olivia’s insecurities undermine her confidence. With everything––including their hearts––on the line, Mac and Olivia must trust God and each other if they’re to frame a future together. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Rumors of Grace by Rena Bell Yeager — Tyler Grant is the cowboy everyone likes to talk about. The Tall Black Hat Guy has a mysterious past and a scandalous present. He likes the ladies, the bars, and fun. Georgia Duncan is everyone’s favorite eighth grade teacher. Cute, girl next door, sings in her church choir. When Tyler asks Georgia out on a date, it is disastrous. As is the next. And the next. They should give up. But when a terrible wreck puts Tyler into the hospital, Georgia offers to let him stay in her spare room while he recuperates. Neighbors talk. Rumors fly. What is the truth? And what do they both learn as they navigate their strange relationship and the rumors surrounding them? Will they find their happily ever after? Do they even want to? (Contemporary Romance from Pixley Knob Press)

Dual/Split Time: The Broken Weathervane by Laura DeNooyer — Two co-workers seek the same information. One wants to publish it; the other has good reasons to keep it hidden. As Leslie Wickersham, Raymond University grants officer, seeks information to unravel a family mystery, English professor Gregory Stafford seeks an elusive interview with one more Buckwalter relative for his upcoming author biography. While Greg and Leslie guard coveted details from each other, her goals are further complicated by letters of blackmail threatening to reveal all she has worked hard to hide. In this dual timeline novel alternating between 2015 and the 1950s, loyalty is tested and secrets abound when family honor collides with truth. Leslie grapples with the trade-off: How far will a person go to help a loved one thrive? (Dual/Split Time from Scrivenings Press)

General Historical: Kate’s Crucible by Elmer Fuller — Kate Collins never imagined her journey to the Kansas Territory in 1855 would be filled with such obstacles and challenges. As she arrives to teach at a New England Emigrant Aid Company settlement, she is met with constant problems—from nature’s wrath to the pain of loss. But it’s not just external forces that challenge Kate, who left a suitor and damaged relationships in Boston. She must confront the question: if God wants her to teach in Kansas, then why does he allow her to face such obstacles? (General Historical, Independently Published)

The Women of Oak Ridge by Michelle Shocklee — 1944. Maebelle Willett arrives in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, eager to begin her new government job and send money home to her impoverished family. She knows little about the work she will be doing, but she’s told it will help America win the war. Not all is what it seems, however. Though Oak Ridge employees are forbidden from discussing their jobs, Mae’s roommate begins sharing disturbing information, then disappears without a trace. Mae desperately attempts to find her but instead comes face-to-face with a life-altering revelation―one that comes at significant cost. 1979. Laurel Willett is a graduate student in Boston when she learns about the history of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where thousands unknowingly worked on the atomic bomb. Intrigued because she knows her Aunt Mae was employed there, Laurel decides to spend the summer with her aunt, hoping to add a family connection to her thesis research. But Mae adamantly refuses to talk about her time in the Secret City. Mae’s friends, however, offer to share their experiences, propelling Laurel on her path to uncovering the truth about a missing woman. As Laurel works to put the pieces together, the hidden pain and guilt Mae has tried so hard to bury comes to light . . . with potentially disastrous consequences. (General Historical from Tyndale House)

Historical Romance: As Far As the West by Barbara A. Curtis — Revenge against Eliza and Caleb Morgan has been smoldering over twenty years in Benton Calloway’s heart. Now the perfect plan to exact payment lands on the threshold of his tailor shop-in the arrival of their daughter, adventurous seamstress Lizzie Morgan. And what could play into his hands better than her interest in his worthless son, Josiah? Lizzie and Josiah struggle to overcome the obstacles hurled at them. Can Lizzie’s love survive, though, when Josiah is accused of being a thief like his father? Is he her redeemed, wounded war hero-or a man following his father’s past? Josiah’s dream of ranching is as shattered as his leg. Even in the bustling city, working as an accountant, his memories from World War I hound him.Past legacies of bitterness are about to be resurrected. Will Lizzie and Josiah follow that path, or will they discover that God’s accounting of grace and forgiveness is boundless-as far as the east is from the west? (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

The Recluse’s Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti — The Loch Ness Monster isn’t the only recluse seeking a Scottish haven. Bieldfell. Scotland, 1933—Falsely accused of murder sixteen years ago, American cowboy Benjamin Ford has chosen to hide out in the Scottish Highlands. Reclusive and not afraid to die, he rescues children out of an increasingly dangerous Germany. When his childhood best friend appears at his door, he’s not the boy she remembers. Eleanor Finch’s life ended sixteen years ago. In one horrible day, she lost her dreams, her reputation, and her heart. However, she never gives up the hope of finding her friend, so when she learns of Ben’s whereabouts, she leaves all that is familiar to convince him to return home. But Eleanor isn’t the only person searching for Ben. Hunters follow her trail. The thin veil of gossip and rumor may be their only chance of a future … unless the Loch Ness Monster is real after all. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Discerning God’s Best Series Collection by Heidi Gray McGill — Four faith-filled stories of love, hope, and healing set in 1800s America, featuring a marriage of convenience, slow-burn romance, found family, and an exclusive bonus story available only in this bundle. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Risking it All by Jeri Stockdale — On the run and out of options, Rebecca takes the place of a mail-order bride and marries Jesse, a rancher grieving his wife and raising two children alone—neither of them ready for love, and both estranged from God, until their unexpected union sparks a journey toward redemption neither dared hope for. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Christmas Mail Order Brides by Carrie Turansky, Susan Page Davis, Vickie McDonough — Marriage arrives by mail-order—and just in time for Christmas. In these touching stories of faith and romance in the American West, three women seeking new beginnings find love in unexpected places. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Cozy Mystery:

The Last Owners by Jean Rezab — When Courtney purchases a quaint house in the countryside, her dreams of transforming it into a cozy, inviting inn appear within reach. But beneath the charming exterior lurks a tangle of dark secrets. The previous owners vanished without a trace—eight years ago. Driven by curiosity and a sense of justice, Courtney and her husband Alex team up with Gary, the son of the missing couple, to unravel the mystery. The clock is ticking. The promise of treasure draws fortune hunters to dig up the tranquil backyard. When a fresh murder shatters the peace, Courtney realizes that the truth might be buried even deeper than she feared. As the stakes rise and the body count grows, Courtney must decide how much she’s willing to risk to bring the truth to light—and whether some dreams are worth dying for. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense: Girl Lost by Kate Angelo — A LOST BABY – Luna Rosati found acceptance and comfort with her childhood foster family, but when she became pregnant at sixteen, she gave the baby up for adoption and left without a word. Now a CIA counterintelligence officer, Luna wants to reconcile her fractured sense of self by finding the only blood family she has–the teenage daughter she’s never met. As Luna closes in on learning the girl’s identity with the help of her mentor, Stryker, she prepares to meet him in her old neighborhood–the last place she wants to be. Then Stryker is captured. AN INESCAPABLE PAST – Special Agent Corbin King changed his last name to escape the shadow of his convicted father serving a life sentence. When he runs into Luna, the object of his failed teenage romance, the two must put their pasts aside and work together to expose a secret that someone’s willing to kill for. A DEADLY THREAT – But when they encounter a kidnapping, missing bodies, and murder, the secrets Corbin and Luna are keeping from one another are only the beginning of the threat they face with more than their own lives at stake. (Romantic Suspense from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills — A survival expert and a Texas Ranger trek into an off-the-grid desolate area to free a seven-year-old little girl who’s held hostage to silence her Russian father from revealing terrorist information. (Romantic Suspense from Tyndale House)

Unexpected Danger by Penny Zeller — Londyn Siegler never imagined her attempt at a fresh start would include a stalker intent on watching her every move. Nor did she imagine her unidentified stalker would follow her back to the very place she was running from–and now the only place that can offer even a semblance of protection. Now, as danger grows and the stalker remains at large, Londyn finds herself seeking refuge with Sheriff Brodie Brenneman, the man whose heart she broke. When the stalker’s attacks increase in severity, Londyn and Brodie find themselves fighting for their lives…and their rekindled love. Can justice be served before it’s too late? (Romantic Suspense from Maplebrook Publishing)

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy: The Stolen Destinies by Demi Griffin — Wren was accustomed to guiding others in shaping their fates in the grand tapestry of Everlasting’s history. However, the weight of the destinies resting solely on his shoulders was a novel sensation for him. As the Bookshelf of the Ages was desecrated by theft, the air thickened with tension, disrupting Wren’s peaceful repose. Tasked with safeguarding the Divine Territory and rescuing the stolen destinies, he embarked on a quest filled with mysterious clues and the palpable sense of urgency. Would his failure thwart the King’s plan toward The Illumination? (This interlude should be read after book five and before book six of the Illumination Chronicles) (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

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

Kage: The 6th Commandment by Charlene Amsden — When wounded journalist Trina Vaughn’s life collides with that of ex-con pastor Kage Kincade, the two must trust each other with their lives—and their hearts—as they confront a conspiracy that tests the limits of faith, courage, and the commandment ‘Thou shalt not kill.’ (Romantic Suspense)

This Isn’t Shakespeare by Stephanie Cardel — When her dreams fall apart, Madison believes it’s a sign from God she should commit to her atheist boyfriend and make a new dream, but once she realizes God would never send her a sign that would cause her to sin, how can she forgive herself for believing the lies of the world? (Young Adult)

Surviving the Deal by Seralynn Lewis — She’s not looking for love. He’s not looking for a wife. But a deal with eternal consequences is about to change everything. (Contemporary Romance)

Her Secret Amish Admirer by Beth Wiseman — Sadie Miller is content with her job as a schoolteacher in a small Amish community located in southern Indiana. She loves children, but her past keeps her from pursuing marriage and having a family of her own. (General Contemporary)

The Day Sarah Ran Away by Janell Goodrich York — When her daughter’s return sparks unexpected change, Sarah leaves routine behind for a cross-country journey-full of surprises, self-discovery, and a future she never imagined. (General Contemporary)