Julie Arduini's Blog, page 16

Fiction Finder: April 2023 New Releases

April 2023 New Releases

Julie’s Note: There are formatting issues beyond my control. To see it without issues, please visit ACFW’s blog: https://acfw.com/acfw-new-releases-april-2023/.

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

Courage in the Storm by Laurel M. Blount — Since witnessing the murder of her beloved parents, Miriam Hochstedler suffers from paralyzing anxiety and a deep-seated fear of the Englisch. Unwilling to venture beyond her family’s Tennessee farm, she forms a close bond with a badly injured gelding. Like Miriam herself, the traumatized animal seems unlikely to recover—until skilled horse whisperer Reuben Brenneman arrives. A survivor of an abusive childhood, Reuben understands fear better than most. He’ll do whatever it takes to help a terrified animal, but his compassion doesn’t extend to the church that turned a blind eye to his family’s suffering. Once he finishes this job, he’ll return to the Englisch world, putting his Amish heritage behind him forever. As Miriam works alongside Reuben, battling the horse’s fear—and her own—an unexpected friendship blooms and deepens into romance. But the Amish faith that sustains her inspires only distrust in Reuben, and the Englisch world he’s chosen has already broken her heart once. Falling in love was easy. But staying together will take all the courage they have. (Contemporary Romance, Berkley)

Hopefully Ever After by Beth Wiseman — Sixteen-year-old Eden Hale doesn’t want to be defined by her current circumstances. With absent parents and a troubled past, Eden refuses to become what people expect. When she is sent to live with an Amish cousin she’s never met in Montgomery, Indiana, she welcomes the chance to become the person she wants to be without the burden of anyone’s judgment. Her hopes are confirmed when she meets Samuel, a young Amish man who seems to like her for who she really is. Samuel Byler has grown up with strict Amish parents, and they aren’t happy that their only son is choosing to spend his free time with an outsider. As Eden and Samuel grow closer, disapproval swirls around the young couple. It isn’t long before Eden starts to doubt herself and wonders if she is doomed to repeat the mistakes of her own past, whether she wants to or not. Meanwhile, Samuel finds himself slipping further and further from his faith—to Eden’s dismay. Both Eden’s and Samuel’s futures hang in the balance as they face decisions about who they are meant to be—both as individuals and together. (Amish Romance, HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

Contemporary Romance:

Holding on to Hope by Janet W. Ferguson — Hope Rodriguez loves planning weddings. There’s nothing more special than helping a bride become a princess for a day, but she’s not sure that’s her calling in life anymore. If only she had her own special someone. Her only current prospect leaves her with more questions than answers about where she falls in his list of priorities. Yet, when a lifelong friend asks her to plan a destination wedding across the country in only two weeks, she’ll have to figure out how to pull off the impossible…alone. After being burned as a child and deserted by his family, Caleb Donnelly has an intimate relationship with pain. Despite all he’s endured, one ache refuses to leave him—the throbbing in his heart where Hope is concerned. So when Hope needs help with their friend’s wedding, he can’t stop himself from volunteering to travel two thousand miles to Jackson, Wyoming. As long as he keeps his feelings in check, he might not ruin their friendship. Because a beautiful woman like Hope could never love a scarred man like him. When Hope and Caleb’s plans go up in flames, it’s their hearts that might never recover. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Home Away From Home by Penny Frost McGinnis — When Marigold Hayes turned fourteen, her mother died, and her father went missing. For forty years, she searched for her dad and lived a quiet life on Abbott Island, until she met Johnny. As her love for Johnny grows, her sorrow from the relentless search for her father breaks her heart. She begs God to help her move forward with her life before she has no love left to give. Then three mysterious strangers show up who could change her life. Johnny Papadakis moved to Abbott Island ten years ago. His ex-wife had pushed him away and discouraged him from having a relationship with their daughter. After years of hard work, his restaurant flourishes, so does his relationship with Marigold. As he seeks Marigold’s hand in marriage, his daughter shows up on his doorstep, looking for a place to call home. Can Marigold and Johnny settle the past and move toward the promise of a blessed future? (Contemporary Romance, from Mt. Zion Ridge Press)

Now or Never by Emily Conrad — If Tim Bergeron got a lifetime achievement award for anything, it’d be managing the iconic rock band, Awestruck, but he’d trade his successful career for the opportunity to prevent his daughter from repeating his mistakes. When a health scare proves time is short, he talks Isabella into a cross-country road trip. His attempts to talk her out of a hasty marriage drive a wedge between them, and it looks like the best he can hope for from the trip is scouting out promising new talent to represent. That is, until he meets Gabby.
Widow Gabrielle Voss has responsibilities to her daughter and patients, deep roots in the community, and a dream that scares her. Though she’d never utter it to the people she lives and works among, the truth slips out with Tim, who’s not in Many Oaks, Iowa, to stay. As her fiftieth birthday party draws near and an attraction to Tim sparks to life, Gabby realizes she must pursue her dream now—or, more reasonably, never. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

The Baby Inheritance by Tina Radcliffe — After the tragic loss of his best friends, rancher Drew Morgan willingly accepts guardianship of their six-month-old baby—until he learns big-city professor Sadie Ross has temporary custody as well. Opposites in every way, the pair now has eight weeks together on Drew’s ranch to decide who will become the permanent parent. Could this makeshift family turn into something real…before the deadline is up? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired/Harlequin)

The Rancher’s Sanctuary by Linda Goodnight — Could facing her fears…Heal her damaged heart? Physically and emotionally scarred, reclusive cowgirl Monroe Matheson prefers rescue dogs over handsome men. But when Nathan Garrison arrives in town, determined to fix up the guest ranch next door, he needs all the help he can get. Before long, Monroe knows there’s more to this stranger than meets the eye. Can working with a man carrying tragic memories be the key to overcoming Monroe’s wounds—both inside and out?. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired/Harlequin)

Historical Romance:

Across the Shores by Kelly Goshorn, Angela K. Couch, Carolyn Miller, Cara Putman — Sometimes love finds you where you are, and other times it meets you across distant shores as four women discover in these four historical stories linked by a shared gold pendant. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Dawn’s Untrodden Green by Carolyn Miller — Not much happens in Theodosia Stapleton’s tiny Northumberland village. She has resigned herself to spinsterhood, caring for her ailing mother in the home of her grandfather, known to the locals as “General Contrary.” When her dear friend dies and leaves behind a daughter, it’s simple enough to take the child into her own quiet world. That is, until her ward’s famous uncle unexpectedly arrives and throws Theo’s tidy orbit completely off-kilter. Fame was the last thing Daniel Balfour sought when he fought in the Peninsular War. But his brave exploits caught the attention of the King, and now the honors he was given hound him everywhere . . . even on his rushed trip to rescue his orphaned niece. Theo’s quick wit and warm smile reassure him that Rebecca is in good hands, and he finds himself free to swiftly return to London and his responsibilities. But those caring hands are beginning to look like they could also safely hold his heart, and he’s tempted to linger. Unfortunately, marriage is simply not in the cards; the army is spouse enough for him. Then an accident and a scandal lead both Theo and Daniel to discover that their best-laid plans may not have been what God designed for them after all. (Historical Romance from Kregel Publications)

The Whispering Wind by Janalyn Voight — Phoebe can have her pick of suitors but never the man she wants. Fancy parties and embroidered fans hold little appeal for Phoebe Walsh. She would rather gallop across the open range or help her father with a wounded calf. Of her many admirers, none spark her interest. Ma seems determined to save her from becoming a spinster, but how can Phoebe accept her mother’s choice of suitors when her heart belongs elsewhere? Several years have passed since Will Canfield stole a kiss and her heart. Remembering her passionate response still curls her insides, but how she feels doesn’t matter. Will’s interest in her isn’t serious, as he’s made clear. She needs to get over the man. If Uncle Con will stop throwing them together, that could be a whole lot easier. Will feels guilty about Phoebe, but he can’t risk another heartbreak. Being left at the altar certainly changed his mind about romance. Phoebe is better off marrying someone else, even if the idea sets his teeth on edge. Phoebe and Will must both, with God’s help, conquer an old fear before they can move ahead with their lives. Set during a troubled time in America, the Montana Gold series explores faith, courage, and love in the Wild West. (Historical Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Biblical Romance:

Charleston Light by Laurie Larsen, Dianne Miley, Annette Wiley, Jody Stallings, Laurie Ingram Sibley, Kelsey R. Budd, Melissa Henderson, Christina Sinisi: — A collection of faith-filled novellas all inspired by Charleston Light, the wonderfully awkward-looking lighthouse that sits on the shore of Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. The stories range from sweet romance to time travel to fantasy to a modern retelling of a beloved fairy tale. You will definitely find something you love on these pages! (Biblical Romance from Random Moon Books)

General Contemporary:

Perfectly Matched by Liana George — Nicki Mayfield is getting married! Or is she? Three days after deciding to marry so she can adopt the young Chinese girl who has captured her heart, Nicki Mayfield heads to Texas to become Mrs. Ben Carrington. However, as the unlikely pair prepares to say, “I do,” a shocking revelation threatens their plans to become a family. While searching for the answers to the mystery holding her future hostage, Nicki must also keep Ms. O’Connor’s legacy alive at New Hope Orphanage – whose future is at serious risk. As she and Ben work toward building their unconventional family, they discover that sacrificial parenting requires putting the child first in ways that bring indescribable joy and unexpected heartbreak to everyone involved. In the end, will Nicki find her happily ever after or will circumstances stop her from being perfectly matched in work, life, and love? (General Contemporary from Scrivening’s Press)

Speculative Fiction:

War of Torment by Ronie Kendig — hey followed him back. Against his will, against his intention. Now enemies threaten from every direction. Amidst it all Marco Dusan struggles to lead his people, to help them survive, even mayhap win the war. He will take any advantage to even the odds. But only after tragedy strikes does he learn just how much he’s willing to sacrifice. He’s not alone. Droserans fight as one, united against the offworlders—Symmachians who covet their planet. With the aid of unexpected allies, the Droserans battle on longer than anyone could have anticipated. Yet they cannot win. And the Faa’Cris, those supernatural warriors, fair of face and fierce of mien, do nothing. But not all have turned their backs. After a bitter year of pain and loss, Kersei Dragoumis navigates a new heritage, ever intent on defending her people. Like her, light-years away from the Quadrants and even farther from the girl she thought she was, Eija Zacdari must come to terms with a new role. Or, rather, with an ancient one. And her success or failure may determine back in the Quadrants who lives and who dies. In the end, Marco will have vengeance for the torment brought by this war. No matter the price. Not even if the price is his soul. (Speculative Fiction from Enclave Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Expired Hope by Megan Besing — She battled every fire she ever faced. He’s risking everything for the chance to belong. Veteran and therapist Natalie Atkinson watched her Army career explode in her face. Seeking a new future in Last Chance County doesn’t start so well when she’s the one being rescued from a client’s burning house. To make matters worse, now she’s stuck evaluating the truck and rescue squads for the fire department. When the chief overhears why she left her last job, she’s determined to prove to him and her boss that she’s still the right therapist to assess his crew. No matter if success takes everything she’s got. Fire Chief Macon James is the right man for the job. He doesn’t need a therapist interfering with the running of his crew or putting his position in jeopardy when a counselor is what tore his family apart. He’s got to get his firefighters to be a team, and he can do it without Natalie’s help. After an explosion destroys her car, it quickly becomes clear she might need him as much as everyone thinks he needs her. If these two stubborn hearts will surrender, they could have everything they want. Or it could all go down in flames. (Romantic Suspense from Sunrise Publishing)

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

A Battle Worth Fighting by Sarah Hanks, Two strong women, centuries apart, fight for the men they love in this inspirational split-time novel. (General Historical)

A Novel Proposal by Denise Hunter, Will Sadie find the ring’s rightful owner? And will she manage to pen a career-saving romance novel by summer’s end? (Contemporary Romance)

Broken Silence by Jane Daly, What if your deepest secret was revealed to those you hold dear? (General Contemporary)

God’s ABCs by Joan C. Benson, With the playfulness of an alphabet tale, the main characters, letters A-Z, parade into the story with their unique talents and interests on display. (Children’s Picture Books)

The Highland Havoc Caper 1998 by Sally Carpenter, While in a castle, former teen idol Sandy Fairfax and his son find a corpse–and it disappears before they can summon help. (Cozy Mystery)

The Shelter of Each Other by Catherine Richmond, Welcome to 1850s Preparation, Iowa, where a man desperate to belong and a woman wanting to escape, join forces for peace. (Historical Romance)

Truth and Forgiveness 1998 by Pat Nichols, An unsolved crime and shocking new evidence risk splitting the Butler family apart. (General Contemporary)

Under Fire by Shawn Coleing, Now desperate to right past wrongs, Eva may do Julian’s job for him, and finally be the one to bring an end to her own life. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

Fifty-Three and Me

As I age, I’m learning things that were NEVER in my radar in my younger years.

-That I would think twice about an event that starts at nine at night because I go to bed at ten.

-I not only can’t eat whatever I want, I don’t want to. It’s either too much, makes me too bloaty, too gassy…

-I have a lazy susan to store all my supplements.

-My youth was about watching 90210. Now the only thing about that zip code and my TV watching is if Beverly Hills is being profiled in a crime show. I can’t get enough of crime shows.

-Never would I have pictured myself enjoying hanging around teens at the age of 53.

But here I am.

Today I turn 53. To this day I remember receiving a card in college from my floor mates and one of the guys wrote, just think, nine more years and you’re 30. Thirty was over two decades ago.

Yet the 80’s seems like yesterday. I mean, I remember all the song lyrics.

But Bible verses? I struggle to recall exactly where to find them and recite word for word.

Ah, 53.

Menopause is living her best life in an effort to snuff out mine. Where the last couple years I’ve struggled with self-esteem and my changing body, I’m now in a place where my emotions chart like a graph. Up. Down. Sideways. I’ll start to cry and wonder what the heck is going on? I’m fine. Aren’t I? Yet I’m sobbing.

Or angry. Like get out of my way, don’t look at me, definitely don’t touch me ANGRY.

Or depressed. As in I miss my parents and I can’t wait to see Jesus why am I on this earth, I have no worth, I just want to go to my eternal home depressed.

Fun times.

But writing is my solace, right?

I thought it was.

But 53 is showing me the word for the year, shift, Writing hasn’t been gaining traction in lives changed, new readers, or sales of note. Last year I taught Hosea to our Sunday School class and felt alive. Now I’m going through Revelation and I love it. I think about it all the time?

Writing used to feel that way.

Speaking of shift, 53 differs from 52 in a few ways.

Tom is home working in our office full time.

Brian is moved out and married.

Hannah has graduated and attends college on line, but is active in a local college ministry.

Two grandsons are in kindergarten.

We have five grandchildren in Wisconsin.

We no longer have Ginger the cat, RIP.

We now have Milo the Beagle pup who aged me quickly.

Usually when I look ahead, I have a sense where things are going. Not so much with 53. At a prayer time a new friend noted they saw me in a canoe. The waters have been peaceful and sedentary for a long time. Not a lot of change. But suddenly the waters became rapid and I required an upgraded canoe and body armor. Things changed fast.

What are the changes? How will it take place? Where?

Time will tell.

For now, I’ll keep the routine I have for the pup, go to bed early, take my supplements and write as I feel I should.

And that’s 53 and me.

Review: His Only Son + #giveaway

His Only Son recounts one of the most controversial moments in the Old Testament—when Abraham was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac on the mountain of Moriah. While traveling to the place of the sacrifice, alongside Isaac
and two servants, Abraham is flooded with vivid memories from the years he and Sarah spent longing for the son they were promised—the son he must now lay upon the altar.

Angel Studios, who brought you THE CHOSEN, is releasing a
new film, HIS ONLY SON, which is a film about Abraham and
Isaac!

Moms, this is a movie you won’t want to miss! There are few things more powerful
than a mother’s love for her son. Take your family to see this film, and be inspired
by Isaac and Sarah’s relationship in His Only Son, coming to theaters March 31.

For the first time in a feature film, the controversial account of Abraham and Isaac
will be brought to life, one that everyone can draw inspiration from.

JULIE’S REVIEW:

As soon as I saw Angel Studios was involved, I knew HIS ONLY SON was going to be a quality movie. It starts with the film’s creator sharing the genesis of the vision and how the movie came about. The budget was shoestring, but you wouldn’t know to watch. The crew created a lot with little.

If you aren’t familiar with Abraham and Isaac’s story, this is a great account. I didn’t see any huge Biblical inaccuracies. In fact, HIS ONLY SON displayed situations from the glory of God to Abraham’s anguish in ways I never considered. There were flashbacks throughout the journey that showed how Abraham and Sarah moved from an infertile couple to parents with a promise from God. When He calls on Abraham and asks for obedience, how could he deny the Lord?

What I especially love is the emotions Sarah goes through in her road to becoming a mother. She’s not always putting God first, and the consequences are on full display. Yet, there’s sympathy for her. Something I haven’t always had.

In short, I think this was a beautiful film that re tells a Biblical story perfect for the Easter season. The landscape, the actors, the music, all of it is quality. I highly recommend you go see HIS ONLY SON.

Movie Website: LINK
Buy Tickets Link: LINK

GIVEAWAY: Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card
This is limited to US winners only. Leave a comment and I’ll use Wheel of Names to choose one winner.

Disclosure:
Many thanks to Angel Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review.
Opinions are 100% my own.

Maeve’s Pledge by Linda Shenton Matchett

Maeve’s Pledge

By Linda Shenton Matchett

The Story Behind the Story

When asked to contribute a story to the Suffrage Spinsters series, I immediately sat down and researched the suffrage movement. I was surprised to discover that the men and women began their crusade to get women the right to vote in the 1830s. Nearly twenty years later, a women’s rights convention was held in Seneca Falls, New York, an event considered the real “birthplace” of women’s suffrage.

The history of suffragism is fascinating because a large percentage of women were against getting the right to vote, and the reasons are numerous. Fear that women would become “masculinized” and the belief that women lacked the expertise and the mental capacity to form an opinion about political issues were among the most prevalent. Others claimed that most women didn’t want the right to vote. They were too busy taking care of the home and raising their children. Another popular belief was that women’s votes wouldn’t add any value, only double the electorate (probably assuming a woman would vote exactly as her husband did).

Intriguingly, one of the main reasons women began to seek the right to vote was taxation. Because they couldn’t vote, they felt taxed without representation. Hmmm, just like the impetus behind that little altercation in 1773 when a group of American colonists tossed crates of tea into Boston harbor.

As I continued to delve into the history of the movement, I unearthed many references to an incident that occurred at the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. I knew I had my story.

By 1876, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and others had traveled the length and breadth of America for more than twenty-five years lecturing, conducting rallies, and distributing pamphlets. They were often were met with ridicule and derision. As Anthony and Stanton discussed strategies about how to be taken seriously an idea surfaced. They would write a document similar to the US “Declaration of Independence,” call it the “Declaration of the Rights of Women,” and present it at the July 4th celebration that was to be held at Independence Hall.

Perfect. Or not. Their request to speak was summarily dismissed, and in fact, few women were able to obtain tickets to the event.

Undeterred, Anthony came up with an alternate plan. On July 4th, in the midst of Richard Henry Lee’s speech (grandson and namesake of one of the Declaration of Independence signers), she marched down the aisle inside Independence Hall and handed the scroll tied in a festive navy-blue ribbon to the host, then turned and made her way out of the building, distributing copies to the clamoring crowd as she went. Outside, she read the document in full as the remaining copies were handed out. Newspapers covered her presentation and printed portions of the document. Word spread, and countless newspapers outside of Philadelphia picked up the story.

If she’d been given the opportunity to speak during the celebration, would she have received as much press? I wonder. Unfortunately, neither Anthony nor Stanton lived to see the ratification of the 19th amendment forty-four years later.

Maeve’s Pledge

Pledges can’t be broken, can they?

Finally out from under her father’s tyrannical thumb, Maeve Wycliffe can live life on her terms. So what if everyone sees her as a spinster to be pitied. She’ll funnel her energies into what matters most: helping the less fortunate and getting women the right to vote. When she’s forced to team up with the local newspaper editor to further the cause, will her pledge to remain single get cropped?

Widower Gus Deighton sees no reason to tempt fate that he can find happiness a second time around. Well past his prime, who would want him anyway? He’ll continue to run his newspaper and cover Philadelphia’s upcoming centennial celebration. But when the local women’s suffrage group agrees that the wealthy, attractive, and very single Maeve Wycliffe act as their liaison, he finds it difficult to remain objective.

Purchase Link:

Author Bio:

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/@lindamatchett

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author_linda_matchett

The Uncertain Heart by Peggy Lovelace Ellis

The Uncertain Heart Synopsis

Rebecca Marie Louise Blackand Louise Rebecca Marie Tracy meet in an orphanage in Hampshire, England, in the year 1800. Because of the similarity of names, they vow to be best friends forever, as only six-year-olds can. This friendship continues until, in 1812 at the age of 18, they leave the orphanage to pursue life in London. Both Rebecca and Louise believe there is a third girl who shares their names.

The Duchess of Dorchester, patroness of the orphanage, gives the girls a firm foundation in biblical teaching. She also believes females will one day take their place in the workforce based on their aptitudes, and educates them accordingly. Under her persuasion, the orphanage solicitor agrees to employ Rebecca in his London office, albeit in a private room unseen by most people. The duchess also arranges a chaperon and living quarters for Rebecca and Louise.

Rebecca has resigned herself to being the businesswoman she believes the duchess desires, but in her heart, she only wants to love and be loved by a husband and children.

Within months of arrival in London, Rebecca encounters her destiny in the form of Edward John Carlisle Cecil, Earl of Shelburne. Her resemblance to someone he has known puzzles him and he determines to learn why.

Does he truly recognize her features, or is he merely charming her to gain his own ends? Rebecca wants answers to these questions because she does not know who she is either. This lack of knowledge is a driving force in her life.

Rebecca has an unwelcome encounter with a titled acquaintance of Shelburne resulting in her determination to avoid all titled gentlemen. Instead, she attempts to interest herself in a clerk who is enamored of her. Her attempt is a failure because the simple touch of Shelburne’s hand makes her forget anything and everything else.

Shelburne visits the Duchess of Dorchester in his effort to learn more about Rebecca. It is during her sharp interrogation of his interest that he suddenly, and to his surprise, blurts out he visualizes Rebecca as his countess.

Rebecca’s conscience forces her to admit she has lost her heart to Shelburne.

Shelburne and Rebecca continue their attempt to find someone who recognizes her features. They ride and drive in Hyde Park and in Green Park. It is in the latter that Rebecca sees an apparition identical to her in appearance. As she continues to see the apparition, sometimes in the presence of a man in regimentals, Rebecca becomes convinced this is an omen of her early death. With that conviction, she determines she cannot form a lasting relationship with any man because she cannot put him through the despair her early death would cause.

Unknown to Shelburne, the nobleman who accosted Rebecca is also the cause of upheaval at Whitehall, where Shelburne gives his assistance based on his Peninsula experience.

Rebecca’s fears of illegitimacy and an early death, Shelburne’s work at Whitehall and his concerns about Rebecca’s emotional stability are some of the obstacles which stand in the way of their growing love.

A precocious, abducted child, who resembles Rebecca at the same age, and a fortnight stay at a country house add both uncertainty and impetus to their courtship. The nobleman/traitor finds Rebecca near the country house, and Shelburne again must deal with him.

Disturbed by Shelburne’s possible misalliance, his mother solves the mystery of Rebecca’s identity. Because of their striking resemblance to their mothers, her daughter Becca’s childhood friends, she identifies Rebecca as the granddaughter of the Duke of Amesbury who disowned his daughter when she eloped with a penniless army officer. She identifies Louise as the granddaughter of the Marquess of Granville, and states that the third girl with the identical names is her own granddaughter, Marie Louise Rebecca Haverford. Shelburne can be excused because he is ten years younger than Becca and her friends.

Rebecca learns Green Park was her parents’ trysting place, and identifies the apparitions she had seen there. Becca assures Rebecca that her parents were, indeed, married.

With her legitimacy assured, and her heart no longer uncertain, Rebecca accepts Shelburne’s proposal, and he watches the haunting blue eyes fill with unrestrained love.

These are my primary sources:

King George III, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_III

Mary Wollstonecraft, https://en.wikipedia.org > wiki >Mary Wollstonecraft

Hannah More, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannah_...

The Oxford English Dictionary, https://www.oed.com/

Melissa Lynn Jones, Thesaurus of Regency Slang & Idiomatic Phrases, The Beau Monde,

Sub of RWA, 1997.

Angela Sarge, Editor, The Regency Realm, The Beau Monde, Subchapter of RWA, 1995.

Sharon Laudermilk & Teresa L. Hamlin, The Regency Companion, Garland Press, 1989.

Carolly Erickson, Our Tempestuous Day (A History of Regency England), Robson Books, 1986.

Illustrated Guide to Country Towns and Villages of Britain, Readers Digest Association, 1985.

Brian Gardner, The East India Company, Dorset Press, 1971

Elizabeth Longford, Wellington, Vol. 1, The Years of the Sword, Weidenfeld & Nicolson

Publishing, 1969.

J. B. Priestley, The Prince of Pleasure and His Regency 1811–1820, Harper & Row, 1969.

G. M. Trevelyan, The History of England, Volume III, Book 1, From Utrecht to Waterloo,

Doubleday, 1952.

Arthur Bryant, The Age of Elegance 1812–1820, Harper, 1950.

Who is this girl with the Irish blue eyes?

Rebecca Marie Louise Black is enthralled by a stranger with emerald eyes whom she sees in passing on the street.

Edward John Carlisle Cecil, Tenth Earl of Shelburne, debonair man about Town, meets the gaze of a young woman with haunting blue eyes. His life forever changes in that instant.

Does he truly recognize her features, or is he merely charming her to gain his own ends?

Rebecca wants answers to these questions because she doesn’t know who she is either.

The Napoleonic War in Spain, a traitor, apparitions in Green Park, and Society rules threaten Edward and Rebecca’s efforts to forge a future together in this thoroughly researched Regency era novel.

HOME

Linked in Peggy Lovelace Ellis.

Goodreads, Peggy Lovelace Ellis

ISBN: 979837472295

Cover Design: SelfPubBookCovers.com/dianecostanzast...

This year, Peggy Lovelace Ellis celebrates fifty-one years as a writer and freelance editor. She continues both professions. She has published in many nationally-distributed magazines, had a regular column in the RPG Digest, ezine and print for 15 years, and published in the Divine Moments series, Merry Christmas Moments (2017), Christmas Stories (2020), and Broken Moments (2021). For four years, she produced and edited a 15-page monthly periodical for local readership. She compiled and edited three anthologies for her writers’ group: Challenges on the Home Front World War II (Chapel Hill Press, 2004; Second Edition, 2020), Lest the Colors Fade (Righter Books, 2008), and A Beautiful Life and Other Stories (Righter Books, 2010). Each contains her short fiction, memoirs, and research. She also published a book of her own short stories, Silver Shadows, Stories of Life in a Small Town (2021).

Fiction Finder: March 2023 New Releases

March 2023 New Releases

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

 

Contemporary Romance:

A Heart to Redeem by Judith McNees — Chris Morgan is the black sheep of the family. He’s leaned into the title, finding as many ways as he can to distance himself from his perfect parents and siblings. When he receives shocking news that rocks his perception of his sinful lifestyle, he needs help. Fast. Brandi Blakely knows exactly what kind of person Chris is. When he comes to her begging for help, she agrees to marry him with one caveat. The marriage will have an expiration date. As the two work together to get custody of the little girl he has just learned about, lines blur, and hearts become involved. Brandi refuses to let Chris in and shatter her fragile heart. When tragedy strikes, can Chris hold onto the tenuous changes he’s made, and can Brandi let go of the ugly scars from her past to see herself as a new creation in Christ? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

 

Hidden in her Heart by Milla Holt — Desperate to get away from her dysfunctional family and avoid the heartbreak of seeing Noah marry another woman, Eden left her hometown, dropped her infamous last name, and built a new life for herself. But when her little sister gets in trouble and pleads for Eden’s help, she doesn’t hesitate to go back. 
Six years after his fiancée dumped him at the altar, Noah has found fulfillment running the youth ministry in his father’s church. When a young man under his pastoral care gets a girl pregnant, Noah’s there to give guidance and support. He’s not prepared to run into the expectant mother’s sister, his former best friend Eden, who ghosted him years ago. Friendship deepens into attraction as Eden and Noah unite to protect the teen couple from Eden’s parents’ headline-seeking schemes. But twice-bitten Noah has thick walls around his heart, and Eden has forgotten how to trust. Will they miss their chance to build a life together? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

 

Historical Romance:

After the Shadows by Amanda Cabot — A brighter future awaits—if she can escape the shadows of the past. Emily Leland sheds no tears when her abusive husband is killed in a bar fight, but what awaits her back home in Sweetwater Crossing is far from the welcome and comfort she expected. First she discovers her father has died under mysterious circumstances. Then the house where the handsome new schoolteacher, Craig Ferguson, and his son are supposed to board burns, leaving them homeless. When Emily proposes turning the family home into a boardinghouse, her sister is so incensed that she leaves town. Alone and broke, her family name sullied by controversy, Emily is determined to solve the mystery of her father’s death—and to aid Craig, despite her fears of men. The widowed schoolmaster proves to be a devoted father, an innovative teacher, and an unexpected ally. As they work to uncover the truth, they just may find the key to unlock a future neither could have imagined. (Historical Romance from Revell)

 

Beyond Wounded Hearts by Cynthia Roemer — They were North and South ~ Faithful and Faithless. After suffering disabling burns during the fall of Richmond, Adelaide Hanover awakens in a hospital alone and destitute, escalating her already stanch hatred for Yankees. When the Union soldier who freed her from the rubble begins paying her visits, she wants nothing to do with him … or his faith. Yet, his persistent kindness penetrates her resolve and forges a much-needed friendship. But after a dangerous man threatens Addie, she flees Richmond, intent on solving the mystery to her aunt’s dying wish before he does. Haunted by a tragic failure in his past, Corporal Luke Gallagher takes Adelaide’s plight on as his own. Though his strong beliefs collide with his growing feelings for her, he offers his family’s home as a place to convalesce. Adelaide’s initial rejection, followed by her sudden willingness to accept his benevolence, hints there’s more to the decision than a mere change of heart. When trouble follows her, endangering her safety, as well as his family’s, Luke must lay his life and his convictions on the line to save them. (Historical Romance, Scrivening’s Press)

Confessions to a Stranger by Danielle Grandinetti — She’s lost her future. He’s sacrificed his. Now they have a chance to reclaim it—together. Wisconsin, 1930—While fleeing for her life, Adaleigh Sirland’s rescue of a child introduces her to a family who provides her safe harbor. When her identity comes under threat of exposure, she must choose between running once more or helping the man who teaches her to hope again. First mate David Martins is intrigued by the mysterious woman taken in by his grandmother, but she wrestles with a troubled past. When his estranged father is arrested for murder, can David put aside his own struggles in time to discern which secret threatens Adaleigh before it kills them both? Welcome to Crow’s Nest, where danger and romance meet at the water’s edge. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Dreams of the Heart by Penny Zeller — Sometimes the hardest battles take place in the heart. Poverty and abuse at the hands of her drunkard father leaves Hannah Bane trapped and alone. Without hope, she prays for a miracle just on the off-chance God will hear her. Will the handsome new deputy, who seems to be watching her every move, be Hannah’s one chance to escape the only life she’s ever known? For as long as he can remember, John Mark Eliason has wanted to be a deputy sheriff. When a job opens in the nearby town of Poplar Springs, he eagerly accepts, but finds his greatest mission won’t be tracking down criminals and bringing justice to the ruthless Wyoming town, but saving a beautiful young woman he barely knows. Will an unexpected answer to a difficult situation show how love can endure—and even thrive—in an unconventional situation? Or will fear and uncertainty keep two hesitant hearts apart? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Maeve’s Pledge by Linda Shenton Matchett — Finally, out from under her father’s tyrannical thumb, Maeve Wycliffe can live life on her terms. So what if everyone sees her as a spinster to be pitied. She’ll funnel her energies into what matters most: helping the less fortunate and getting women the right to vote. When she’s forced to team up with the local newspaper editor to further the cause, will her pledge to remain single get cropped? Widower Gus Deighton sees no reason to tempt fate that he can find happiness a second time around. Well past his prime, who would want him anyway? He’ll continue to run his newspaper and cover Philadelphia’s upcoming centennial celebration. But when the local women’s suffrage group agrees that the wealthy, attractive, and very single Maeve Wycliffe acts as their liaison, he finds it difficult to remain objective. (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)

 

Mystery:

Scream Blue Murder by Susan Page Davis — An old photo, a twister, and a friend being stalked…A tornado rips through town, and Campbell McBride and her dad take shelter. Afterward, they try to help others who were hard hit, and a body is discovered in the debris of a cottage near their friends’ home. Was the man dead before the twister struck? The owners of the ruined cottage hire True Blue Investigations to help identify the victim and find out how he got on their property. Meanwhile, among the volunteers, Campbell meets her mother’s old school friend, Jackie. It seems Jackie married her mom’s former boyfriend—and now she has eyes on Campbell’s widowed father. (Mystery from Scrivening’s Press)

 

 

Speculative Fiction:

Lost in Wonderland by Tabitha Bouldin — If you make a deal with evil, be prepared for the consequences. When a metal dragon kidnaps Alice, Hatter gathers the troops and charges off to rescue her. If only things were so uncomplicated. In the Ivory Kingdom, they find upheaval of the worst kind and all heading to civil war spearheaded by a man known as the Bandersnatch. Turmoil and the terror of fighting against a giant wolf, the Bandersnatch is bad enough, but when the Ivory Queen’s secrets are exposed, Hatter and Alice face off in a battle of wills and points of view. How can Alice trust a woman who deceived them? Why can’t Hatter see the bigger picture? If they don’t reconcile their differences, more could be at risk than the Ivory Kingdom. More questions than answers bombard them in their quest for truth and freedom for all. Who is stealing children? What dark secret overshadows the Ivory Kingdom? Can they avoid the Bandersnatch’s clutches? And most important of all, who can they trust? (Speculative Fiction from Celebrate Lit Publishing)

 

 

Thriller/Suspense/Romantic:

 

From Chaos by Karen Randau — When Kelsey is forced to flee from her ex-husband’s family with secrets she can’t risk revealing, she finds herself in a situation more dangerous than ever before. With no one else to turn to, Kelsey and her friend Greg must outwit their pursuers or risk becoming victims themselves. From Chaos is the second book in the Peach Blossom Romantic Suspense series, and it follows the riveting journey of two people with very different backgrounds and soul-crushing experiences. If they overcome the unbeatable odds they face together, they’ll come out of it stronger and more committed to each other. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic, Independently Published)

Out of the Ashes by Melanie D. Snitker — He thought it was just a structure fire. As a firefighter, Bryce Keyes is no stranger when it comes to running into a burning building. What he didn’t expect was coming face-to-face with the woman he loved years ago. Getting her out safely is one thing, but when it looks like she was the arsonist’s target, Bryce realizes he can’t just let her walk away again. Especially not while her life is in danger. She’s desperate to escape. For Megan Bristow, returning to Destiny, Texas was about saying a final goodbye to a dysfunctional family and the memories she’s tried hard to bury. She planned to go in, help her mother tie up loose ends, and get out again. When someone makes an attempt on her life, Megan realizes those loose ends are only the beginning of a tangled web, and she’s been drawn right into the center of it. They’ll have to put the past behind them. Only by working together will they be able to figure out who’s hunting her and why – before it’s too late. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic, Independently Published)

Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn — USSS Special Agent Zane Thacker has landed his dream assignment protecting the president of the United States. When the president plans a fundraiser at the exclusive estate of a political supporter in Raleigh, Zane is thrilled to be working again with Special Agent Tessa Reed, his best friend–and the woman he desperately wishes could be more. Though Tessa almost lost everything, she battled her demons and came out on the other side healthy and healed. But when her role as the liaison between the Raleigh office and the president’s protective detail wrenches her past back into the present, her greatest failure threatens to come to light. Zane refuses to let Tessa go through this alone. But can he stand by the woman he loves and protect the president from a mounting threat at the same time? Sparks fly as award-winning romantic suspense writer Lynn H. Blackburn closes out her Defend and Protect series with this explosive tale of secrets kept, lies exposed, and relationships restored. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic from Revell)

Yosemite Firestorm by Tanya Stowe — A raging forest fire isn’t the only threat…When an act of arson claims the life of a hiker, Yosemite Park Ranger Livy Chatham is the only witness—putting her right into the path of determined criminals. Only rock climber Hayden Bryant can protect her from the killers destroying all evidence of their crimes. But can Livy and Hayden outrun the danger that’s as hot on their heels as the fires blazing through Yosemite? (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

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

 

  A Divine Romance by Ifueko Ogbomo, The royal decree that couples this unlikely pair will make or break the history of an ancient empire. (Biblical Romance)

 

 

  Brooke by Ronie Kendig, Prioritizing career over family cost Brooke Metcalfe Mulroney everything—her relationship with her siblings, her marriage, her children. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

 

  Daughter of Eden by Jill Eileen Smith, How will they ever survive out of Eden? (Historical/Biblical)

 

 

  Death in High Places by Sara L. Jameson, The clock is ticking and what Jacob uncovers is more devastating than anything he could have imagined. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

 

  Five Steps Beyond by Luana Ehrlich, Will his prayers be answered in time or has his time come to an end? (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

 

  High Plains Bargain by Patricia Collier, Martie assumes that she will inherit the ranch, but the will changes everything. (Historical Romance)

 

 

  Legacy by Keith Windham, If you had the chance to change the past, would you? (Speculative Fiction/Time Travel)

 

 

  Memory Lane by Becky Wade, There’s no way to discover those answers except to walk beside him down memory lane. (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  One Wonders by Luana Ehrlich, Will Silas be able to uncover the truth before it’s too late and someone gets hurt? (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

 

  Promise of Purity by Marguerite Martin Gray, Is true purity found in the laws of religion or in the hearts of the faithful? (Historical Romance)

 

 

  Samantha’s Wish by Ruth Kyser, With Christmas coming soon, Samantha Morgan just wants to go home. (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  Season Two Snafu by Cindy M. Amos, Will there be too many snafus to win a championship this season? (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  Simple Interest by Susan Page Davis, She’s determined to get back her stolen ring and the bank’s money–whether the Rangers help her or not. (Western)

 

 

  The Dark Reckoning by Sarah Hamaker, Will Cy and Isana uncover the truth about the list before their lives are snuffed out? (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

 

  Trading Thomas by Ora Smith, Will this naïve young settler survive the perils awaiting him and forge peace between two peoples? (Action/Adventure/Historical)

 

 

  Winning His Trust by Toni Shiloh, To build a future together, they must both let go of the past. (Contemporary Romance)

 

Over the Edge by Michael Garrett

My recently released new Christian suspense novel, Over the Edge, came about as quite a surprise to me. Its precursor, Innocence Denied, received rave critical praise but never seemed to catch on in terms of sales. I had no intention to follow it up since it was such a dud, but fellow writers will agree that, if writing is in your blood, it’s there to stay.

When a sequel popped into my head three years later, I felt compelled to tell the continuing story of Larissa Baxter. Even though it’s a sequel to Innocence Denied, I wrote Over the Edge as a standalone novel that doesn’t require the first book to have been read to enjoy it.

I have since revised Innocence Denied to be republished soon as Nothing to Lose. I know this is confusing (I’m confused myself!) so I’ll move on to tell you about Over the Edge.

It’s a woman-in-jeopardy suspense story about a newbie Christian socialite, Larissa Baxter, who has been in hiding to avoid prosecution for a crime she didn’t commit. Although all charges have been dropped, she remains reluctant to resurface just yet. But just when she considers going public, a new threat catches her by surprise and she shifts into survival mode more so than ever.

When David faced Goliath, he at least had a rock. Larissa Baxter didn’t even have that.

As with the first book, Over the Edge has also received high critical acclaim, from “I couldn’t put it down” to “completely absorbing!” and  “loved the twists.”

If you’re a fan of strong female lead characters and Christian suspense, I urge you to read the first few pages on Amazon’s “Look Inside” feature. Please give it a rating—you don’t have to write a review to do so.

And watch out for Nothing to Lose and find out how Larissa got into this mess in the first place.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Garrett holds the distinction of having served as Stephen King’s first editor and publisher. He’s one of the world’s top independent book editors, living in a small Alabama town. [image error]His life revolves around God, his wife of 35+ years, Sharon, two adult children, five grandchildren, a dachshund, and one grand dog.

As a former Writer’s Digest School Editorial Associate and contracted editor with Pocket Books and Kensington Publishing, Michael has worked with scores of highly successful authors, as well as thousands of new writers seeking publication. For over twenty years he taught a highly acclaimed writing workshop series coast-to-coast.

Michael is a devoted Christian who is truly blessed. “God has given me so much. All of the goodness in my life comes directly from Him.

“Many years ago when our two children, Leslie and Wade, were small, God blessed my wife and me with a lake house on beautiful Logan Martin Lake in Talladega County, Alabama. We share countless memories of weekends watching the kids enjoy the water and the environment. That modest home will always have a special place in my heart and seemed the perfect setting for OVER THE EDGE.”

For the second time in her life, someone wanted Larissa Baxter dead . . .

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.