Julie Arduini's Blog, page 16

Dial V for Valentine by Linda Shenton Matchett

When I was asked to participate in the multi-author project, You are on the Air, I was hesitant to accept because the books are contemporary romance, and I primarily write historical romance. But after brainstorming ideas with the series creators, I found a way to include my historical roots.

I had just finished putting together an exhibit with the curator at the museum where I volunteer. One of the display items was a wedding gown made from a parachute. Included with the dress was a photograph of the couple, and their names and wedding date, but nothing else. The lack of information got my mind going, and I wondered about their story. Why did they wait until the end of the war to marry? Why not wed before the groom shipped out? Did they regret waiting? I realized that members of today’s armed forces might deal with the same situation and decided to combine the two plot lines.

But of course, I had managed to come up with a concept that would require A LOT of research: Valentine’s Day and the military. My mother’s birthday is February 14, so when we were growing up that date was all about celebrating Mom, not romance. As a result, observing the day never carried over into my adult (dating) life, so I had to research what Valentine’s Day means to people and how it is celebrated. Additionally, even though I know many people who serve(d) in all branches of the armed forces, I didn’t have a clue about what it’s like to be part of a military family.

I reached out to the writing community through a newsgroup and almost immediately heard from USA Today and Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author Jodie Bailey. Her husband, 1SG(R) Paul Bailey, is apparently quite used to being a resource, and the two were a gold mine of information. I should have realized like any industry the army has its own vocabulary. Here are a few tidbits of what I learned:

Mission cycle: A soldier can be called in and have to report within two hours. They can’t be more than a certain distance from home and must be in reach at all times. When called they can be “wheels up” in less than 24-hours. Someone is always on mission cycle.Wheels up: Literally, in the airplane and on the way to your assignmentRapid deployment: Doesn’t just happened to any old unit or soldier at any time. A rapid deployment typically happens to those on mission cycle. It’s unplanned and typically in response to a world event.Regular deployment: Military members often know about these months or even a year in advance. Departure and return dates are well-known. These are rotational. However, a regular deployment can be extended.Transfers: If a soldier is transferred into a new unit, and that unit is deployed, he’s going along. It’s not like, oh, you’re new, you can wait until the next round. J

I loved writing this book, and the research gave me an even greater appreciation for those serving in the armed forces. There’s no way I have what it takes to be part of this special group of people. I hope Dial V for Valentine honors them and brings to light their daily sacrifices.

About Dial V for Valentine

Valentine’s Day is perfect for a wedding. If only the bride will agree.

Being part of the military is not just a job for Fergus Rafferty, it’s a calling. He’s worked his way up the ranks and doing what he loves best: flying Apache helicopters. The only thing that will make his life complete is marrying Celeste. After he transfers to a unit scheduled to deploy in three months, he’s thrilled at the idea of marrying before he leaves so they can start their new life. Except Celeste wants to wait until he returns. Can he convince her to wed before he leaves?

Celeste Hardwicke has just opened her law practice when she finally accepts Fergus’s marriage proposal. Not to worry. She has plenty of time to set a date, then plan the wedding. Until she doesn’t. But a quickie wedding isn’t what she has in mind. Besides, why get married when the groom will ship out after the ceremony? When she stumbles on her great-grandmother’s diary from World War II, she discovers the two of them share the same predicament. 

At an impasse, Celeste and Fergus agree to call into WDES’s program No Errin’ for Love. Will DJ Erin Orberg’s advice solve their dilemma or create a bigger divide? One they’ll both regret.

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. She is a volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII and a former trustee for her local public library. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Linda was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She now makes her home in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include exploring the outdoors and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

Social Media Links:

Website/Blog: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindaShentonMatchettAuthor

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4b-o_6cD8HkHNyFP-wZwJg

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-shenton-matchett

Anchored Hearts FREE 2/14 and 2/15

I typically create promotions for weekends, but I thought since Valentine’s Day is love-themed, why not offer ANCHORED HEARTS free for Kindle/eReading?

This is the first book in my new Christian/Sweet/Small Town series, Surrendering Hearts. The series features the Hart sextuplets. They have a unique birth story but stay in the spotlight due to tragedy. Each sibling has their own book where they discover their own identity and try to find a romance like their parents shared.

Jordyn is the oldest sibling. She’s a beloved sextuplet with big dreams. Spencer Collins is a no-nonsense reporter with specific goals. What happens when they learn they are new co-anchors of a morning show?

This is a romance about surrendering control. Both Jordyn and Spencer are go-getters and the morning show gig doesn’t quite line up with their plans. As they try to figure working together out, both of their families have issues the two desperately want to keep managed.

I loved writing this because control is something I can relate to. Surrendering that is hard. I’ve been there. But I’ve also experienced the freedom that comes when I let go of that and let God be God.

Julie Arduini

Check it out and grab your copy. Please tell others. If you enjoy it, please leave a kind review. Reviews make ALL the difference.

Be sure to follow me across social media and book sites so you’re the first to know when Ryan’s story, Repairing Hearts, is available.

Anchored Hearts will be free 2.14 after 3am Eastern. Please check price. eBook only. Offer ends 2/15.

A Thrill Ride Wrapped Up in a Heartwarming Love Story by Karen Randau

A Thrill Ride Wrapped Up in a Heartwarming Love Story

By Karen Randau

If you like to read inspirational and clean romantic suspense novels, you should dive into my Peach Blossom Romantic Suspense series. The seed was planted during the year I lived in Oklahoma and was intrigued by the area’s unique culture, history, and an abundance of Christian churches. My vision is that each novel can stand on its own, but they all build upon the previous book, and they tell the second-chance love story of at least one person introduced previously.

Kelsey White is the victim in book 1 of the series (Into the Fog). She has fled her ex-husband’s family from Boston to Peach Blossom, a fictional Oklahoma farming community located a little over an hour from Tulsa. She brought with her secrets she can’t risk revealing, and she lets no one get too close.

Gregorio Moreno is a friend of the male protagonist in book 1. Ever since Gregorio’s wife divorced him with no explanation, Gregorio has masked his heartache with an adrenaline-fueled life and shallow relationships. He meets Kelsey at a birthday party, when he brings her cake because she’s hobbling around on a broken leg after being left for dead in a Tulsa city dump.

The second book in the series, From Chaos, is Kelsey and Gregorio’s story. Before they can dare loving each other, they must face their fears and flaws, reveal their gut-wrenching secrets, and deal with the lies they tell themselves.

Kelsey has kept her relationship with Gregorio in the friend zone despite a strong attraction to him. He frequently talks her through flashbacks of her abduction experience. She treasures their relationship, but her secrets—combined with his reputation of a lady’s man—convince her to only see him in groups of church friends. Knowing she is emotionally fragile and believing she’s the blonde of his dreams, Gregorio cleans up his act and takes his time getting a solo date with Kelsey.

After eight months of platonic friendship, he finally talks her into a dinner in the city, and they end up running for their lives after witnessing an execution-style murder. They’re certain the killers saw them, and that the license plate on the Corvette in which they careen away from the crime scene will reveal Gregorio’s identity. That will lead the killers to his parents, Kelsey, and their friends, and neither is willing to take that chance. They go into hiding, but the killers anticipate their every move. Here’s a short excerpt from Chapter 1:

A tall guy—wearing jeans, a muscle-hugging T-shirt, and the boots that had kicked the man from the vehicle—jumped out. The guy’s posture resembled that of a soldier or a law-enforcement officer. He held a gun to the back of the tied-up man’s head.

Kelsey gasped, and Greg pushed her farther down behind the bushes.

“Gun to Ben’s head.” His whisper was more of a gasp.

“You know who that is?”

“I’ll explain later.” In the dimming light, he opened his camera app and gulped in three breaths as he tapped on the video setting. “Call 911.”

She drew her phone from her back pocket, her thumb trembling to the nine on the keypad. A gunshot stunned her into dropping the phone. It fell through the opening between bleachers and perched in the V of two tangled branches. Greg’s wide eyes pinned her before he stuck his head up long enough to check if the gunman heard the racket.

Readers of clean romantic suspense stories will love From Chaos. It’s slated for release on Amazon in March, but you can pre-order your copy now at a discounted price of 99 cents. It’s an edge-of-your-seat and inspirational friends-to-lovers story you won’t want to put down.

Buy link: https://tinyurl.com/LearnAboutFromChaos

Karen’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/karenrandauauthor

Karen’s BookBub Profile: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/karen-randau

About the Author

Karen Randau is an award-winning and chart-topping author of multiple mystery and suspense books. She lives in the mountains of Arizona with her husband, son, and grandson, enjoying nature, cooking, reading, and hanging out with her family. Her author website is located at www.karenrandau.com.

Book Review: Friends, Lovers, and The Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry

I’m busy enough these days that I rarely post a book review unless I’ve been asked by a publisher. This is the exception because I’ve read some other reviews and opinions on this book, and I wanted to offer a different perspective.

The book?

Matthew Perry’s Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.

I’ve followed actor Matthew Perry’s career since he guest starred as Carol’s boyfriend on Growing Pains. Ironically, his character passed away after an accident where he was drinking and driving.

When Friends came out, I was their target age and hooked from episode one. Chandler was a favorite. It wasn’t only that his lines were written well, it was his execution, his gestures and expressions.

I noticed his appearance during the seasons changed. I’d read he went to rehab and I knew during the beach house episodes he absolutely had a substance abuse problem. But I didn’t hear too much and as the show ended, I was married and a mom. I wasn’t aware Matthew Perry’s life was far from funny.

My Review:

This isn’t your typical memoir and that might be tripping readers up. If anyone is looking for Friends memories, behind-the-scenes stories with the other actors and general gossip, you’ll be disappointed. However, I hope that doesn’t stop you.

Perry’s book is the most raw encouragement and get help letter to a fellow addict I’ve ever read. There isn’t anything glamourous about his addiction. The fact that he’s a celebrity doesn’t stop him from nearly dying more than once or give him a pass from the consequences. He’s spent millions to get well and then also to numb his pain and feed the addiction. He’s lost precious relationships and made choices that hurt himself, his family, friends, work, and partners. He’s very honest, some say too much so, but I think it’s needed. I give him credit. I’m sure it wasn’t easy going back and processing those times and writing them.

More than the raw journey into addiction, he writes about his fears and what I believe is the key moment that led him to numbing his pain. Not only was he given dangerous drugs as a young child, he had a real fear of abandonment. As I read I could see that every choice he made in relationships and addiction traced back to that fear. The cruel irony of addiction is you will be left alone if you continue to use.

Although we’re the same age, the mom in me wanted to reach into the pages and give this lost person a hug. I could also tell he’s on a faith journey, although he might not define it that way. It is my core belief that we are all created with a gap in our life. We choose many things to fill that gap. But it is a God-shaped hole in which only His Son Jesus can fill. Not with religion, mind you, but a relationship with the living Christ who will rescue anyone out of the pit and never leave them alone.

Perry is blunt about his future. He can’t use again without consequences so severe he will either end up with a lifetime colostomy or in a body bag. With that, he’s taking it a day at a time and as of the writing of the book, he’s been in recovery 18 months.

Addiction is no laughing matter and maybe he would have more accolades from Friends fans if he ignored that and wrote about the time him and so-and-so did whatever. I’m so glad he did not. If you know someone struggling with addiction, read this book and give them a copy.

Matthew’s story may save their life.

I highly recommend.

Please note he is very honest about his choices and addiction is clearly depicted. This is not a religious book so there is language.

Fiction Finder: February 2023 New Releases

February 2023 New Releases

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

Amish Romance:


Every Good Gift by Kelly S. Irvin — Maisy never expected that a Plain girl like her could have her heart stolen by an Englisch boy. But when her rumspringa ends and Maisy realizes she’s pregnant, the reality of their choices—and their differences—sets in. Maisy knows she will never leave her faith to marry her baby’s father. But she also knows the road to acceptance as an unwed mother in an Amish community will be long and hard. To protect her family from the scandal, she goes to live with her cousin in Haven, Kansas, where she will have some solitude to figure out what kind of future she might have. In Haven Maisy begins to find her way—thanks in no small part to Joshua Lapp, a Plain man who’s made it clear he isn’t bothered by her situation or ashamed to be seen with her, despite the bishop’s warnings. But Joshua has struggled with his faith ever since the death of his twin brother, leaving Maisy to wonder: How can two people who are so lost ever help each other discover Gott’s plans for their future? (Amish Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing (Thomas Nelson and Zondervan))

Contemporary Romance:


Dial V for Valentine by Linda Shenton Matchett — Being part of the military is not just a job for Fergus Rafferty, it’s a calling. He’s worked his way up the ranks and doing what he loves best: flying Apache helicopters. The only thing that will make his life complete is marrying Celeste. After he transfers to a unit scheduled to deploy in three months, he’s thrilled at the idea of marrying before he leaves so they can start their new life. Except Celeste wants to wait until he returns. Can he convince her to wed before he leaves? Celeste Hardwicke has just opened her law practice when she finally accepts Fergus’s marriage proposal. Not to worry. She has plenty of time to set a date, then plan the wedding. Until she doesn’t. But a quickie wedding isn’t what she has in mind. Besides, why get married when the groom will ship out after the ceremony? When she stumbles on her great-grandmother’s diary from World War II, she discovers the two of them share the same predicament. At an impasse, Celeste and Fergus agree to call into WDES’s program No Errin’ for Love. Will DJ Erin Orberg’s advice solve their dilemma or create a bigger divide? One they’ll both regret. (Contemporary Romance from Shortwave Press)

Love Delivered by Amy Anguish, et. al. — Romance at Register Five (Amy R Anguish) – Mack McDonald isn’t happy about the Grocerease app coming to his grocery store. But he’s committed to the sixty-day trial period, and braces himself to lose money. Kaitlyn Daniels loves how the Grocerease app helps her make ends meet so she can assist her mom, the reason she moved to small Sassafras, AR. Mack and Kaitlyn struggle to overcome differing opinions on the perks of the app. But if they don’t, it could keep them from something even better. Where Love is Planted (Sarah Anne Crouch) – Ivy Aaronson is surrounded by family at their flower shop in West Texas-just the way she likes it. But she’s given up hope on ever finding a man who understands her choices. When attorney Grant Keller orders flowers for his mother, Ivy wonders if maybe there are indeed some considerate men left in the world until she learns Grant’s relationship with his parents is less than ideal. How can Ivy ever find love when every man she meets puts career over family? Sweet Delivery (Heather Greer) – After winning Cake That!, Will Forrester thinks his Pastry Perfect baking dreams have come true. The sweetness fades when a chain bakery moves to town, and Will must adjust his plans to keep his customers. Hiring Erica Gerard is one of those changes. As they work together, Erica challenges Will and offers new ideas to improve the bakery. Soon, Erica and Will start bringing out the best in each other. But Erica harbors a secret, and if it’s discovered, Will might never be the same. The Mermaids, the Ex and USSS (Rachel Herod) – Braig Sanborn is the most loyal employee the United States Shipping Service has ever seen, which is why he agreed to transfer across the country with only a few weeks’ notice. Ella Morrison is so busy planning a friend’s wedding, she didn’t expect to fall for the carrier who delivers packages to her house. When they both find themselves in too deep, will they agree the relationship was doomed from the start? (Contemporary Romance from Scrivening’s Press)

Muskoka Hearts by Carolyn Miller — Toni Wakefield may be a talented artist, but past choices means this single mother never feels the equal of those around her—especially her brother’s best friend, investment funds manager Matt. Matt long ago fell in love with his best friend’s younger sister, and try as he might, he just can’t fall out of it. And between his crazy working hours and the fact she’s now settled two hours away in beautiful Muskoka it seems they never have any time together. How can he persuade her to consider to give him a chance, when she’s sworn the only man she can care about is her baby boy? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Never Find Another You by Narelle Atkins — Hannah Gilbertson has deep roots in her small East Washington home town, including a lake named after her family. Sporty and hard-working, she loves running the rowing club and supporting the town’s water recreation tourism. She’s determined to avoid dating and becoming entangled in her mother’s matchmaking schemes, and she wants to prove to her successful father that she’s worthy of carrying on his legacy. Joel Manning left behind his life in Sydney, Australia, and a broken heart, to start over in Trinity Lakes. A tiler by trade, he’s embarking on a year-long working vacation adventure, and he’s not looking for love. The handsome Aussie captures Hannah’s interest when she hires him to do repair work at her rowing club. Joel is drawn to the beautiful American, and values spending time with her. Their shared faith and love for kayaking lays the foundation for their friendship to become something more. A shocking secret combined with family upheaval leads to more questions than answers, and threatens to push Joel and Hannah apart to faraway shores. Can their love overcome the miles between them? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

General Contemporary:


Songs for a Sunday by Heather Norman Smith — Two sets of sisters, generations apart―can one big sister’s sacrifice teach the other about love and forgiveness? 1963: Twenty-year-old Annie dreams of managing the dance studio where she has trained since childhood and of marrying her high-society boyfriend. But when her younger sister with special needs gets pregnant, Annie is forced to set her dreams aside for the sake of family. Present Day: Missy Robbins has always lived in her younger sister’s shadow. When given the opportunity, Missy steps out of her comfort zone as stay-at-home mom of four to prove she’s as good a singer as Erica. Missy’s new pursuit puts her on a path to self-discovery and reclaiming her discarded faith. Until she discovers her grandmother has a sixty-year-old secret. Will Missy conceal Grandma Annie’s deception or will she be forced to reveal the hidden truth. (General Contemporary from Iron Stream Fiction)

Historical Romance:


A Not So Persistent Suitor by Sandra Merville Hart — He’s fighting for his career…She’s bent on achieving her own goals…Will their love survive a second chance at happily ever after? Cora Welch dreams of a future teaching kindergarten, which is in its infancy, and marriage to Ben Findlay, her beau and her twin brother’s best friend. But she returns to college from summer break to learn of Ben’s unwise choices in pursuit of his career—choices that destroy her trust in the man she thought she knew and loved. Ben is working hard toward his dream to become the best reporter in the city. He’s no stranger to fighting for a goal against all odds, ever since he was orphaned at age thirteen. Even though Cora has captured his heart, he makes the mistake of escorting the boss’s daughter to a fancy banquet to further his career—with far-reaching repercussions. Now he’s hurt Cora and botched his career goals. Winning Cora’s trust again proves harder than Ben expects, especially as they both face struggles of their own. When events spiral out of their control, catapulting them into hardship and even danger, only God can restore their dreams—though the outcome may look far different than either of them planned. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Counterfeit Hope by Crystal Caudill — When Secret Service operative Andrew Darlington is brought in to support a US Marshal case involving counterfeiters in rural Indiana, he thinks it’s simply the next rung on his climb to the top of his career. But liars can only climb so high–and Andrew is keeping a dangerous secret he doesn’t ever want to get out. When he clashes with the criminal family that took over the town of Landkreis and killed the Marshal he was sent to assist, his past life is in danger of being exposed. Widow “Lightning Lu” Thorne has only one goal: escape the clutches of the Thorne family with her son. Her decision to be an informant and testify against the Thornes looked like the perfect answer. Until the Marshal ended up dead. Now the tether keeping her tied to her felonious family is tightening, and a forced marriage to someone else in the Thornes’ clutches threatens to kill any hope of escape. Andrew and Lu find themselves on the same team–unwillingly. They each believe the other to be the enemy to their future plans. And even if they could learn to work together, the secrets they hold could shatter all hopes and dreams. Despite the encouragement of the local preacher, they’re not even sure God can be trusted–much less other humans. Can either of them escape their past–and the family that is willing to kill their own when they smell betrayal? (Historical Romance from Kregel Publications)

The Cairo Curse by Pepper D. Basham — Clue meets Indiana Jones with a fiction-loving twist only Grace Percy can provide. Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley have already experienced their fair-share of suspense within their young marriage, but nothing quite prepares them for Egypt. As a gift to his bride, Frederick takes their honeymoon on a detour to the land of Pharaohs where Frederick’s cousins are involved in an archaeological expedition. But soon the trip turns more dangerous than even Grace with her fiction-loving mind could predict. From an assortment of untrustworthy adventure-seekers to a series of “suspicious deaths” to a newly discovered tomb with a murderous secret, Frederick and Grace must lean on each other to navigate their hazardous surroundings and even less predictable cast of characters. As the suspects mount in an antiquities’ heist of novel-worthy proportions, will Frederick and Grace’s attempts to solve the mystery lead to another death among the sands? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin — When the Germans march into Denmark, Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt exchanges his nobility for anonymity, assuming a new identity so he can secretly row messages for the Danish Resistance across the waters to Sweden. American physicist Dr. Else Jensen refuses to leave Copenhagen and abandon her research—her life’s dream—and makes a dangerous decision to print resistance newspapers. As Else hears rumors of the movement’s legendary Havmand—the merman—she also becomes intrigued by the mysterious and silent shipyard worker living in the same boardinghouse. Henrik makes every effort to conceal his noble upbringing, but he is torn between the façade he must maintain and the woman he is beginning to fall in love with. When the Occupation cracks down on the Danes, these two passionate people will discover if there is more power in speech . . . or in silence. (Historical Romance from Revell)

Thriller/Suspense:


Death in High Places by Sara L. Jameson — An Interpol agent with a deadline he can’t miss. Urgent intel warns of terrorist cells planning coordinated attacks throughout Europe. Special Agent Jacob Coulter of Brussels Interpol is assigned to find the terrorist financiers supporting these groups and shut down their funding operations. An opera singer’s life and career hang in the balance. The Queen of the Night’s vocal pyrotechnics have launched many a soprano’s international career. But Riley Williams, Jacob’s fiancée, is terrified of heights, and her Antwerp Opera debut as the evil queen requires her to sing from a hydraulic lift forty feet above the orchestra pit. When newspapers cite Riley’s recent unmasking of an international terrorist plot and the lift malfunctions, Jacob suspects terrorist sabotage. (Thriller/Suspense from Scrivening’s Press)

Detecting Secrets by Sami A. Abrams — Tracking the scents of the missing might be the only way to save them. Partnered with her air-scent dog and Sheriff Dennis Monroe, marriage and family therapist Charlotte Bradley is desperate to put an end to a black-market baby smuggling ring in Anderson County. Who is kidnapping the pregnant girls she counsels and taking their babies? As Charlotte searches for answers, she and Dennis must dodge gunfire and deadly attacks. But the sinister agenda they uncover just might include her. (Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Kill Shot by Angela L. Gold — After Rory Rydell invites the world to accept Jesus as Savior while levitating above her execution platform, she is the natural choice to serve as one of the co-presidents of the new nation created by God’s miraculous defeat of the United World Order. But then the Kingdom Advisory Council selects Dawson Fortis—her former jailer under the Order—to serve beside her as co-president. Will the two be able to put their complicated past behind them and serve the needs of the country? Or will the council meetings descend into endless arguments? Although crippled, the Order in the Eastern and Central zones has survived. The Order’s supreme commanders are hotter than a solar flare over their defeat in the Western zone. They see Rory and the new nation as a threat to their very existence … one that must be eliminated. Rory trusts God for protection, even though she understands she is a target and is acutely aware that many of God’s devoted followers have been martyred over the ages, even Jesus. But she has made her choice—serving God is the one thing important enough to risk her life for. The question is, what will it ultimately cost her? (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published)

Thriller/Suspense/Psychological:

A Cry in the Dark by Jessica R. Patch — Led to an isolated Appalachian Mountain town by a trail of disturbing murders, FBI special agent Violet Rainwater’s determined to catch a serial killer with a twisted agenda. With locals refusing to reveal their secrets, Violet’s only ally is Detective John Orlando. But even John has an ulterior motive—he’s convinced this case is connected to his wife’s murder. As they dig deeper, Violet uncovers a link to her own unresolved past. For years she’s worked the cold case of her mother’s abduction, which had led to her birth. The need to look into the eyes of the sinful man who fathered her consumes Violet. Until she can, she’ll never have peace. Because she’s terrified she might be exactly like him. In this chilling novel, when the present collides with Violet’s mysterious past and John’s tragic loss, they must unravel the warped, sinuous connections before the killer strikes again. But solving the case might not be nearly as terrifying as the possibility that Violet’s finally found her roots… (Thriller/Suspense/Psychological from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:


Alaskan Avalanche Escape by Darlene L. Turner — After surviving a sudden avalanche, mountain survival expert Jayla Hoyt and her search-and-rescue K-9 discover that it was no accident—someone deliberately triggered the mountain explosion. To uncover the culprit, she’ll have to partner with Alaska park ranger Bryson Clarke, a man she doesn’t trust. But when the investigators become targets, can they capture the criminal mastermind…before they’re buried alive? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Cold Light of Day by Elizabeth Goddard — Police Chief Autumn Long is fighting to keep her job in the quiet Alaska town of Shadow Gap when an unexpected string of criminal activity leaves her with a wounded officer, unexplained murders, and even an attack on her own father. Despite her mistrust of outsiders, she turns to Grier Brenner, a newcomer who seems to have the skills and training Autumn needs to face this threat to her community. 
Grier is in Alaska for the same reason so many others are–to disappear–when Chief Long enlists his help. He emerges from the shadows and proves his mettle, but his presence in her life could be a deadly trap for them both. If his secret is exposed, all will be lost. And he’s not sure even Autumn could save him. As the stakes rise and the dangers increase, Autumn and Grier must rely on each other to extinguish the deadly threats. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Revell)

Courage in the Shadows by Robin Patchen — Ever since she and thirteen other models were kidnapped years before, Summer Lake has fought to ensure that she can protect herself. But when her job as a bodyguard brings her into contact with a man she believes masterminded her kidnapping, her first urge is to run, terrified of being taken again. Instead, she follows the stranger, determined to bring him to justice. Bodyguard Grant Wright fell in love with Summer the instant he saw her, a fierce protector standing in front of the other endangered young women he’d come to rescue. Years later, Summer still sees him as barely more than a coworker. Grant bides his time, sticking close in an effort to keep her safe and hoping she’ll eventually open her heart to him. When her life is threatened, he’s not about to allow her to fight her enemies alone. He’ll stay by her side whether she wants him or not. But Summer and Grant have an enemy whose global smuggling organization is so powerful, so pervasive, that it’ll be a miracle if either of them emerges from this battle alive. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance, Independently Published)

Every Flower of the Field by Sara Davison — Safe is the most dangerous feeling of all. For as long as she can remember, Rose Galway has been a captive, controlled by one man or another. To her, though, God is the one holding the keys, refusing to set her free despite the desperate pleas she has sent heavenward. Detective Laken Jones has known hardship too, including the daily trauma of racism. Still, nothing he has gone through compares to what Rose has endured. He wants nothing more than for her to experience hope and healing and maybe even happiness in her life. But first he has to find her. Laken is willing to risk everything to set Rose free. And to help her find her way to God. Even if that means letting go of her—and the future he envisions for the two of them—forever. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance, Independently Published)

Perilous Security Detail by Elizabeth Goddard — With threats on all sides…Secrets can prove deadly. Narrowly surviving an intentional hit-and-run, Sawyer Blackwood hires his unexpected rescuer to guard his niece. Bodyguard Everly Honor will do anything to protect a child, even if it means working with her ex. But, as attacks escalate, how can she accomplish her mission to keep them safe when Sawyer is keeping secrets from her…and she’s concealing the truth about her own past? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Western Romance:

Forged in Love by Mary Connealy — When sparks begin to fly, can a friendship cast in iron be shaped into something more? Mariah Stover is left for dead and with no memory when the Deadeye Gang robs the stagecoach she’s riding in, killing both her father and brother. As she takes over her father’s blacksmith shop and tries to move forward, she soon finds herself in jeopardy and wondering–does someone know she witnessed the robbery and is still alive? Handsome and polished Clint Roberts escaped to western Wyoming, leaving his painful memories behind. Hoping for a fresh start, he opens a diner where he creates fine dishes, but is met with harsh resistance from the townsfolk, who prefer to stick to their old ways. Clint and Mariah are drawn together by the trials they face in town, and Clint is determined to protect Mariah at all costs when danger descends upon her home. As threats pursue them from every side, will they survive to build a life forged in love?. (Western Romance from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

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

 

  A Future and a Hope by Caroline Susan Powers, How will they handle their unwanted attraction in circumstances they don’t control? (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Ambush in Alaska by Darlene L. Turner, Can they rescue the other abducted children and bring down the gang…all while protecting a little boy and keeping themselves alive? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance)

 

  Fallout by Carrie Stuart Parks, Her carefully crafted life is about to be demolished. (Thriller/Suspense/Crime)

 

  Rescuing Rose by Susan Pope Sloan , Only their strong faith can help them find love in the midst of war. (General Historical)

And the Winner Is…

Last week I reviewed The TEXT Bible and it included a giveaway. Using Wheel of Names, the winner is…

TRACIE!

Congratulations! Thank you for the comments and reading. I don’t do giveaways often, so this was fun!

Tracie will receive a copy of The TEXT Bible from the publisher.

Many thanks to Harper Collins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product
for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Guess How Much God Loves You by Karen Ferguson

Next month is Valentine’s Day, or as some call it ‘The love month,’ so I thought this the perfect time to introduce you to the main character in the Guess How Much God Loves You book series for kids, Lucy Lu. 

Lucy is a smart and creative seven-year-old who has lots of questions, especially about God. She also sometimes questions whether or not she’s loved. 

You see, at the beginning of the story we find Lucy doubting God’s love because of some hurtful and hateful things that were said to her by her classmates.

Lucy had always been told by her Papa Joe, “God loves you!” But now that she was seven years old, she had questions about that. Especially since some of her classmates said mean things to her like, “You look funny.” “You talk funny.” And the worst one of all, “No one likes you!”

Lucy begins to doubt God‘s love because of bullying that’s going on at school. Unfortunately, bullying is an issue all too common for young children.

“This story made my heart full with joy. How often do we hear bullying addressed with the love of God? Karen Ferguson does it well in the first book of her series Guess How Much God Loves You.”

Although the inspiration for Lucy came from several people, a big part of Lucy’s character comes from me, the author.

I was bullied horribly in elementary school, and the wounds cut so deep they followed me into my adult life.

We often view God through the lens of how other people treat us, so when we’re bullied or mistreated we can start to doubt God’s love. Doubt His goodness.  We start to doubt whether we are worthy of love at all.

“Lucy Lu has a question—and it’s the biggest question of all: Does God really love me? Using the wonders of the creation story, her Papa offers a sweetly reassuring and scriptural answer. And it’s the answer all children—from one to ninety two—need to hear.”

I’ve worked with children throughout my adult life, and one of my biggest desires has been to help them see themselves through God’s eyes. To see that they are immensely valued, and unconditionally loved by the Creator of the Universe. 

Unfortunately these days, our culture is attempting to take God out of the equation, and that’s leaving many kids hopeless and insecure in their identities.

So, when I sat down to write a children’s book I knew it would have to include two things that were important to me, and that I believe are critical for raising healthy children in mind, body and spirit.

It had to be Bible based teaching about key events in history that demonstrate God’s all powerful, all knowing, and all loving character toward all people. I wanted to point young people directly to God’s Word, helping them understand that it can be trusted, that He can be trusted. 

And more than anything, I want young children to know that God’s love for them is never-changing, never-failing, and never-ending.

Guess How Much God Loves You is a six part series that covers important Bible accounts crucial for building a firm foundation in God and His Good Character – all through the lens of His unconditional love.

This first book starts at the very beginning with the Creation Account as recorded in Genesis   Young readers will discover just how this marvelous, majestic world was created, and learn about their unique role in it as special creations of God, formed in His image. 

What better time than during ‘love month’ to remind children how much they are loved by their Heavenly Father. To drive home the truth that they were created in His image on purpose and for a purpose. To assure them their life matters and that they have incredible value, because they were created by God!

“This is a story about sweet, little Lucy, wondering if God loves her. Its message is universal. God has given His children this world, and everything in it, to show how much He loves us. Children will love the vivid artwork and how the author has woven Lucy into the well known scripture story.”

Do you know a child that needs to hear this important message? I hope you will share it with them. 

***

Guess How Much God Loves You is now available on Amazon (or wherever books are sold), and I hope you’ll pick up one (or two to share with the special young readers in your life. I want every child to know their life matters!

You can also sign up for my newsletter, and you’ll be the first to know about upcoming events, giveaways, freebies, and new books.

Karen Ferguson is a freelance writer and small business owner with a background in K-8 education. A grateful wife, mom, and grandmom, she loves words and Scripture and is passionate about writing stories that grab and hold young readers’ attention, while teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths, and His unchanging love for them. 

The first book in the Guess How Much God Loves You picture book series is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Landmark Booksellers, and wherever books are sold.  

You can connect with Karen on her website or on social media at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Goodreads, Bookbub and Amazon.

Warm regards, Karen Ferguson Inspirational Children’s Author Guess How Much God Loves You picture book now available on Amazon! Visit my website: Karenferg.com Let’s connect:  Twitter | Instagram | Facebook  

Book Review: The Text Bible + #giveaway

Made with students, young adults, and new believers in mind, The TEXT introduces the new and memorable TEXT study method—Talk to God; Encounter God and humanity in Scripture; eXamine your heart; Talk to others—to help readers of every experience level interact with God’s
message. Along with this easy-to-use Bible engagement technique, answers to common
questions, prayer prompts, and easy-to-understand study tips, The TEXT is a
Bible readers of any experience level will want to use every day.

Features Include:
• TEXT the Text: use the four-step TEXT study method— Talk to God; Encounter
God and humanity; eXamine your heart; Talk to others—to engage with Scripture

• Big Q of the Text: big life questions with short answers

• “Who is God?”: nearly 100 short devotions on the person and character of God

• Praying the Text: Learn how to start praying God’s Word right back to him!

• Get to Know the Text: brief explanations of people and events found in Scripture

• Follow the Thread: navigate the Bible across topics

• Anatomy of the Text: concise descriptions of literary devices and categories
of Scripture found within the Bible, such as parables and apocalyptic books

• Terms of the Text: brief definitions of important words to help us better understand
and discuss Scripture

• Clear and readable 9-point NET Comfort Print® typeface

General editors:
Michael and Hayley DiMarco are the bestselling and award-winning authors of
more than 40 books including Own It, God Guy, God Girl, and A Woman Overwhelmed.
Michael and Hayley have now served as general editors on three
Bible projects. Together, they work side-by-side at Hungry Planet, a company
they founded that creates winsome and spiritually based content for teens and
adults. They live in Eugene, Oregon, where Michael serves as a pastor.

Julie’s Review:

I have a heart for teens and a hunger for His Word. I went into THE TEXT thinking of my daughter, who is that age, as well as the young people I mentor in our youth group. I love that this Bible includes devotions and an acronym that will help them fall in love with His Word.

Here are some key features:

-Bible for students that doesn’t talk down to them and teaches who God is,
how to engage with Scripture, and how to have a personal relationship with
him.
-Ideal for teens, young adults, new believers, and anyone who doesn’t feel confident
engaging Scripture on their own.
•-Accessible new Scripture Engagement Method (TEXT) that connects Scripture
to all of life.

What surprised me was for a Bible geared toward young people and a TEXT acronym, I thought there would be some interactive content for readers. For example, in 2020 i reviewed the Life Essentials Study Bible and they included devotions with a QR code. You download the app, scan the code, and it takes you to a video with more on the topic from Pastor Gene Getz. What’s ironic is I believe he is 90, and that Bible included technology I think teens are drawn to and looking for.

Other than that, my daughter noted she is looking to take it from me and said it looked easy to read. I do recommend THE TEXT because of the features. I’m just personally disappointed they aren’t interactive.

GIVEAWAY: 1 (one) copy of the TEXT Bible (Hardcover) will be sent to one US winner. Leave a comment below on why you’d like to win this Bible by JANUARY 16, 6pm, Eastern. Random winner selected via Wheel of Names.

Many thanks to Harper Collins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product
for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

WEBSITE

BUY

•

The Year of the Bear by Douglas J. Lanzo

As a writer blessed to have my award-winning, debut coming of age novel, The Year of the Bear, nominated for the John Newbery Medal and to have published 293 inspirational poems in 64 literary journals and anthologies around the globe, I am honored to share some thoughts on my journey and inspiration. 

Prior to the Pandemic, I had published very modestly perhaps a dozen poems in various Church publications and only a single poem in a truly professional literary journal.  Less than three years later, I have published a warmly received, Newbery-nominated novel endorsed by a NYTimes bestselling author as well as 293 poems published in 57 literary journals, including the second largest print newspaper in the world, and 7 poetry anthologies, many of which were bestsellers, on 5 continents. 

What brought about this incredible proliferation? I found a voice, a gracious and undeserved gift, and, like one of my childhood heroes, simply trusted God to help me find the literary vessels to carry them to readers globally.  This childhood hero is none other than Eric Liddell, the great Scottish missionary and runner whose principled refusal to run an Olympic 100-meter race on a Sunday was chronicled in Chariots of Fire.  His tremendous faith, courage, and use of his gifts for God’s glory helped inspire not only my writing career but my record-setting high school running career and my realized aspiration to become a Division 1 varsity, cross-country scholar-athlete at Harvard College. 

I published The Year of the Bear at the urging of my twin sons, one of whom even cried during its most touching scene.  Inspired by magical days of fishing, exploration, and adventure growing up on a pond-laced tract of forested farmland in rural Connecticut that teemed with wildlife, this authentic novel was written from my heart and soul and has received glowing endorsements from many incredibly accomplished endorsers. Among them are NYTimes Bestselling Author and Emmy-Winning Executive Producer of The Daily Show, Josh Lieb, acclaimed author and world-renowned poet, Scott Mason, and distinguished pastors, nationally recognized athletes and coaches, selfless community leaders, and very importantly, several authors and reviewers who are Native Americans.  Given the central role of a Penobscot Indian mentor in this powerful coming of age story,  I was touched and humbled that the Native American authors and reviewers praised TYOTB for doing “a great job of demonstrating respect for Penobscot culture” with one even comparing it to “The Call of the Wild” and me to “a modern Jack London.” 

I was likewise swept away by the effusive words of my haiku poet mentor, Scott Mason, who wrote: “The Year of the Bear tells a coming-of-age story, its action seamlessly interwoven with moments of indigenous wisdom, personal discovery, and universal truth. If the immediate experience is cinematic, its aftereffect is inspirational. A compelling and uplifting work.”

My novel brings to the reader the majesty of Mount Katahdin, the northernmost terminus of the Appalachian trails and the first mountain peak on which the sun shines each day.  In the engraved words of former Governor and philanthropist Percival Baxter, who purchased and then generously donated Katahdin’s environs as Baxter State Park to the people of Maine:

“Man is born to die. His works are short-lived. Buildings crumble, monuments decay, and wealth vanishes, but Katahdin in all its glory forever shall remain the mountain of the people of Maine.”

In a divided society where a return to rational discourse sometimes feels like waiting for Godot, my novel appeals to the nobler side of human nature.  It immerses readers as active participants in a universal story, the struggle of characters seeking to define who they are and what they stand for, as readers meld with them, experiencing their triumphs and tragedies as their very own. 

To achieve this effect required an authenticity that resonates with readers, connecting to the core of who and what they are.  As an author, it is at once an incredibly rewarding and exhilarating yet responsible mission – one that requires sincerity, transparency, and vulnerability – openly sharing convictions, emotions and aspirations of the characters in order to recognize universal truths that brighten the lives of readers and their loved ones around the world. 

In the words of Reverend Doctor Cheryl Tatham of North Chevy Chase Church, The Year of the Bear “connects the expanse of nature and human emotion at a level of intensity that carries the reader deep into the lives of its characters.”  I hope that you, too, open your hearts, minds, and souls to The Year of the Bear and immerse yourself in an exhilarating journey along the way…

An award-winning author and poet, Doug’s debut novel, The Year of the Bear, placed
2nd in the Firebird Award’s Coming of Age Category and has been nominated for the Newbery, Selah and Illumination Awards and endorsed by a NYTimes bestselling author.  Doug resides in Chevy Chase, Maryland with his wife and twin son haiku poets, enjoying nature, tennis, fishing and chess.  Doug is also the author of 293 poems published in 64 journals and bestselling anthologies in the US, Canada, Caribbean, England, Wales, Austria, Mauritius, India, Japan and Australia. His Author website is located at www.douglaslanzo.com.

Fiction Finder: January 2023 New Releases

January 2023 New Releases

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

Contemporary Romance:

Where Faith Belongs by Heidi Chiavaroli — Amie Martin has never been more ready to trade in her quaint seaside Maine hometown for a life of studying art in New York. But when old flame August Colton returns to Camden and proclaims his undying love, Amie is torn between her future plans and forgiving August’s secret past. Fresh out of college, August is intent on helping the family business as an architect. He’s finally earned the respect of his brother and grandfather and he’s finally glimpsing a way out from beneath his past. But when August’s grandfather suffers a health crisis and the woman he loves shows interest in a wandering artist staying at the bed and breakfast, August wonders if he won’t be paying for his past mistakes for the rest of his life. Can Amie and August find faith in each other again? More importantly, can they find a faith that heals the broken parts of their past? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

General Historical:

Truth and Honor (Light in the Empire) by Carol Ashby — Is truth worth the price if it costs you everything? For Tribune Glabrio, descended from three consuls of Rome and determined to be the fourth, commanding the troops policing Carthago appears ideal for hastening his political rise. Arriving from Rome with the secretly Christian Sartorus as his aide, Glabrio discovers the man he was to replace has vanished without a trace. Was the missing tribune too close to finding the counterfeiters Glabrio is now hunting? But no matter the cost, duty and honor require him to enforce Roman law. Orphaned as a child and taken to live with her pagan grandfather, Martina met Jesus through her step-grandmother. Their faith was a well-kept secret, even from most of their family. With both grandparents now dead, her uncle helps Martina hide the faith he doesn’t share. But after a single dinner at her uncle’s, the new tribune is determined to get to know her. No matter what she does to discourage Glabrio, he won’t leave her alone. But if he discovers her faith, will it mean her death? (General Historical from Cerrillo Press)

Historical Romance:

A Winter at the White Queen by Denise Weimer — Ellie Hastings is tired of playing social gatekeeper-and poor-relation companion-to her Gibson Girl of a cousin. But her aunt insists Ellie lift her nose out of her detective novel long enough to help gauge the eligibility of bachelors during the winter social season at Florida’s Hotel Belleview. She finds plenty that’s mysterious about the suave, aloof Philadelphia inventor, Lewis Thornton. Why does he keep sneaking around the hotel? Does he have a secret sweetheart? And what is his connection to the evasive Mr. Gaspachi, slated to perform at Washington’s Birthday Ball? Ellie’s comical sleuthing ought to put Lewis out, but the diffident way her family treats her smashes a hole in his normal reserve. When Florence Hastings’s diamond necklace goes missing, Ellie’s keen mind threatens to uncover not only Lewis’s secrets, but give him back hope for love. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Redemption’s Trail by Betty Woods — Newly widowed with her second child due in a few months, Lily Johnson has nowhere to go until Toby Grimes, her late husband’s boss, asks her to stay on as housekeeper at his ranch. Remaining in the house Mr. Grimes built for her and her husband is an answered prayer. But malicious gossips see her godsend job as a ruse for a sinful dalliance since her employer is a nice-looking single man. God and a lot others turned their backs on Toby during the war, so he returns the favor by keeping to himself. Yet the need to care for and protect Lily overwhelms him. The way she tugs at his heart scares him more than going into a losing battle. Unwilling to allow anyone to destroy a fine woman’s reputation, he proposes a marriage of convenience. After much prayer, Lily accepts. Her first marriage was a love match made in heaven. The second leads down a trail only God knows the end to. (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

The Heir’s Predicament by Lorri Dudley — Maggie Prescott may not know her real name, the circumstances of her birth, or her father’s identity, but based on a song her shipwrecked birthmother taught her before she died, Maggie’s certain the answers lie on the island of Antigua. Unbeknownst to her beloved adopted family, she sends her maid to finishing school in her stead and convinces her uncle, Captain Anthony Middleton, to sail her to the Leeward Islands. Time is of the essence to discover her heritage before the next family gathering exposes her duplicity. Lord Samuel Fredrick Harcourt Granville was groomed to inherit the Cardon title and lands, but the possession of his father’s temper has put Samuel’s future in jeopardy. After discovering his fiancée cavorting with his so-called friend, the ensuing altercation lands Samuel in court before of the House of Lords. As an example, for all aristocratic sons to quell their hedonistic living, the House of Lords banishes Samuel to the island of Antigua until he can prove he’s worthy of his privileged birth. On the island, Samuel works to rein in his temper and revive a dying sugar plantation. Still, his return to England and all his efforts are threatened when a mysterious woman breaks into his island home, claiming to be the true heiress of the sugar plantation. Guilt, resentment, and fresh yearnings sizzle under the island sun as Maggie’s search uncovers a much greater treasure than either of them expected. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

The Highlander’s Loving Heart by Z. Peabody — Cillian Pherson is the Duke of Blackridge and chieftain to the legendary Pherson Clan, one of Scotland’s oldest and fiercest. A strong leader with an honest warrior’s loving heart, Cillian prefers settling clan wars and making sure Scotland maintains independence to sitting in the Grand Hall, listening to his father regale old stories. Cillian also has no thoughts of settling down to beget heirs, as his father constantly reminds him he must, until the night he gets a glimpse of his future. Upon returning home after months away serving his king, Cillian brings back good news about the war, along with unpleasant news about his future. After an argument with his father, Cillian storms out of the castle and takes to the mountainous paths of his Scottish lands, only to witness a ship crashing against the rocks below the cliffs. But even with Aoife’s best intentions to help her good friend, Aoife finds the call of adventure too hard to resist. She soon finds out that adventure is closer than she thinks, and right where she never would have thought she wanted to be. 
Now, Cillian must find a treasure that is missing from the wreckage—one the crew claims is the most-valued jewel aboard, and one he only caught a glimpse of. (Historical Romance from Z. Peabody Publishing LLC)

Romance: Amish:

The Amish Bachelor’s Bride by Pamela Desmond Wright — Marrying in name only…Could lead to more than they expected. Single mother Lavinia Simmons’s world is turned upside down when she discovers her late husband gambled away their home. A quick marriage of convenience to bachelor Noem Witzel in return for caring for his niece and nephew is the solution both Lavinia and Noem need. Neither of them is looking for romance. But what if these perfect strangers have other ideas? (Amish Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Speculative Fiction:

Penny’s Journal: Fortune Lost by Gina Detwiler — Grace and Jared have inexplicably disappeared. For the next decade, their friend Penny keeps a prayer journal, detailing her personal struggles in a society slowly unraveling from pandemics, natural disasters, famine, crime, and war. When all seems lost, a new leader arrives on the scene who claims he will save the world—but who is he really? (Speculative Fiction from VINSPIRE)

Thriller/Suspense:

Ambush in Alaska by Darlene L. Turner — Saving a boy who has escaped his captors puts Canadian border patrol officer Hannah Morgan right into the path of a ruthless child-smuggling ring. Now with help from police constable Layke Jackson, she must keep the child safe. But can they rescue the other abducted children and bring down the gang…all while protecting a little boy and keeping themselves alive? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Edge of the Storm: Two Novellas by Tanya Stowe & Heather Woodhaven — Wilderness Sabotage by Heather Woodhaven: 
Investigating sabotage on a construction site, journalist Jackie Dutton stumbles on a murder—and barely escapes when she flees and falls off a cliff. Only quick thinking from law enforcement ranger Shawn Burkett, her ex-boyfriend, saves her. Now facing a massive blizzard and relentless pursuers together, they must rely on their fragile trust and wilderness skills to get out alive…

Vanished in the Mountains by Tanya Stowe: When domestic violence counselor Dulcie Parker uncovers evidence of a human trafficking ring in the Four Corners area, she’s determined to stop it or die trying. With corruption all around her and killers on her trail, Deputy Sheriff Austin Turner’s the one person she can trust. But can they work together to expose the crime ring before she becomes the next victim? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

What Happens Next by Christina Suzann Nelson — Popular podcaster and ex-reporter Faith Byrne has made a name for herself telling stories of greatness after tragedy–but her real life does not mirror the stories she tells. While her daughters spend the summer in Hawaii with her ex-husband and his new wife, she must manage life on her own. But all that changes when she’s asked to spotlight her childhood best friend’s missing person case on her podcast. Dora Crane has never accepted that her younger daughter could be dead, keeping her home looking the same as when her daughter disappeared. But when her husband leaves her, and her older daughter intervenes, she agrees to counseling and to pack up her missing daughter’s belongings under one condition: Faith Byrne comes to Deep Valley and sheds light on the cold case. As the investigation moves forward, the two women uncover desperate secrets, and Faith and Dora must face the long-hidden truth before they can begin to move forward. (Thriller/Suspense/Contemporary from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

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

 

  Doxxi No More by Roger E. Bruner, What part will a book-length homework assignment play in solving Richard’s problems? (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Framing the Marshal by Sharee Stover , Proving his innocence may cost him his life… (Thriller/Suspense/Romance)

 

  In Love’s Time by Kate Breslin, When Marcus’s secret mission damages his relationship with Clare, he hopes to reconcile with her later, but his hope is dashed with an accident and both must learn to trust in order to find their way back together. (Historical Romance)
   Rebecca’s Anchor by Patricia Reece, Will Brother Jack keep his promise to Starlyn? (General Historical)

 

  Runaway by Jennifer Heeren , A novel memoir that dreams of a time where all people are equal. (General Historical)

 

  The Masterpiece Beneath by Lisa Buffaloe, As Veronika’s secrets come to light, will they destroy those she loves or reveal God’s masterpiece beneath? (General Contemporary)

 

  The Return of a Cowboy by Elsie Davis, Will they realize the greatest gift is theirs for the taking…the gift of love? (Contemporary Romance)