Julie Arduini's Blog, page 26

ACFW Fiction Finder: January 2022 New Releases

January 2022 New Releases

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

General Contemporary:

Grace Across the Miles by Christine Dillon — How can you belong when you don’t know who you are? Gina Reid is surrounded by people getting married or having babies. She’s under pressure to settle down but how can she do that when she doesn’t even know where she came from? Since the startling revelation that she was adopted, it’s felt like there is something missing. But fear has kept her from searching for her biological parents. What if learning the truth is worse than not knowing? Now an overheard comment has propelled her into action. Can Gina find out who she truly is? Or will she discover that some secrets are best left undisturbed? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Mercy’s Legacy by Sarah Hanks — After being released from prison, DeAndre struggles to make a new life for himself and his family. But when his past shows up in the doorway of his art studio, begging for a place in his heart and life, he is forced to make decisions that will alter his life forever. Nine-year-old Mercy has questions no one will answer. That is, until her brother reveals that he knows the whereabouts of her birthfather. Is the man whose blood runs in her veins a bad man like her parents told her? Or a good one? Could he fulfill the longing in her heart to truly belong? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Her Faith Restored by Cynthia Herron — Can two polar opposites meet in the middle to achieve a winning outcome? Sunset Meadows’ activity director Melinda Brewer has her work cut out for her. As a five-year veteran with the cutting-edge retirement community, “Mel” wears many hats. But her job is more than a title. The residents at “The Meadows” are like family—some of whom she’s known her entire life. Ruby—this little niche in the Ozark Mountains—may be a mere dot on the Missouri map, but it’s also Mel’s birthplace, the land of her heritage, reminiscent of old ways while cognizant of new seasons.Leave it to new kid on the block Matt Enders to upset the apple cart. When Enders is hired as the facility’s new social worker, his idea of a well-oiled machine is to eliminate a few rusty cogs—chiefly, some of Mel’s most successful programs. Mr. City Slicker doesn’t care about making waves. He delivers a hurricane! (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

His Road to Redemption by Lisa Jordan — Veteran Micah Holland’s scars go deeper than anyone knows. An inheritance from his mentor could be a new beginning—if he shares the inherited goat farm with fiercely independent Paige Watson. Now the only way they can keep the farm is to work together. But first Micah must prove he’s a changed man to keep his dream and the woman he’s falling for. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin)).

Love on Ice by Carolyn Miller — She’s focused on winning gold. He wants to lose the player tag. Can a fake relationship become something real? Aussie short track skater Holly Travers has one goal – make the Vancouver Games, no matter what it takes. She has no time for distractions, even if they come in the handsome form of her Canadian best friend’s twin brother. This hockey player may say he’s not a player, but can she trust him? Brent Karlsson has one goal – make his sister’s best friend realize he’s a changed man and she should give him a chance. When a set-up in Hawaii helps these two opposites realize they have more in common than they thought, what happens when he wants to turn their fake relationship into something real? And how can a relationship work when these two elite athletes never see each other and live on opposite sides of the world?
(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published).

Searching for Home by Jill Weatherholt — When injured professional bull rider Luke Beckett returns to his hometown to recover, he doesn’t expect his B and B host and physical therapist to be his first and only love, Meg Brennan. He’s also unprepared for Meg’s adorable triplets to steal his heart. Luke’s past has him doubting he’s good enough for Meg and the children, but they might be just what the doctor ordered to help him heal. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Historical Romance:

Harmony on the Horizon by Kathleen Denly — Her calling to change the world may be his downfall. On the heels of the Great Rebellion, Margaret Foster, an abolitionist northerner, takes a teaching position in 1865 San Diego—a town dominated by Southern sympathizers. At thirty-seven years of age, Margaret has accepted spinsterhood and embraced her role as teacher. So, when Everett Thompson, the handsomest member of the School Board, reveals his interest in her, it’s a dream come true. Until her passionate ideals drive a wedge between them. After two decades of hard work, Everett Thompson is on the verge of having everything he’s dreamed of. Even the beautiful new teacher has agreed to his courtship. Then two investments go south and a blackmailer threatens everything Everett has and dreams of. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Her Darling Mr. Day by Grace Hitchcock — New Orleans’ most eligible bachelor insists he’s not on the market . . . but he couldn’t be more wrong. Jilted in front of all New York, Theodore Day decides to lose himself in his family’s luxury riverboat business in New Orleans and compete against his brother to become the next company head. The brother with the most sales by summer’s end will win the position. Thanks to Theodore’s fame as a suitor in a socialite’s outlandish competition to find a husband, he has become very desirable royalty in Southern society and thus has an advantage. It took Flora Wingfield’s best work to convince her family to summer in New Orleans, but with Teddy Day a bachelor once again, she’s leaving nothing to chance. Desperate to stand out from all the clamoring belles, Flora attempts a bold move that goes completely awry, only to find it’s her interior design skills that finally catch his notice. But when Flora’s father’s matchmaking schemes come in the way of her plans, Teddy will have to decide where his happiness truly lies and what he is willing to sacrifice for it. (Historical Romance from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Love’s Twisting Trail by Betty Woods — Stampedes, wild animals, and renegade Comanches make a cattle drive dangerous for any man. The risks multiply when Charlotte Grimes goes up the trail disguised as Charlie, a fourteen-year-old boy. She promised her dying father she’d save their ranch after her brother, Tobias, mismanages their money. To keep her vow, she rides the trail with the brother she can’t trust. David Shepherd needs one more successful drive to finish buying the ranch he’s prayed for. He partners with Tobias to travel safely through Indian Territory. David detests the hateful way. Tobias treats his younger brother, Charlie. But what does he do when he discovers Charlie’s secret? What kind of woman would do what she’s done? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Marrying Mr. Wrong by Melissa Jagears — Gwendolyn McGill wants to be loved and accepted for who she is, but that’s hard to do in a small town where everyone judges her by the scandal her father caused. Unfortunately, the man she hoped would sweep her away from all the wagging tongues is no longer interested in marrying her. Unable to leave town, she’s determined to prove she’s more than just a pretty face who knows how to bat her eyelashes.
For years, Timothy O’Conner has loved Gwen from a distance, knowing someone like her would never be attracted to a lowly ranch hand with a blemished face like him. When Gwen unexpectedly shows up at the ranch, asking him to help her learn how to attract a man of quality, Tim’s feelings become even harder to suppress. When danger pushes them together, they discover there’s more to each other than either of them imagined. Though God is no respecter of persons, is the desire of their hearts strong enough to defy society’s expectations? (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Song for the Hunter by Naomi Musch — Wed to a trading company partner to escape life in Montreal under her harsh father’s thumb, Camilla Bonnet finds herself tragically widowed and pregnant in the Upper Country frontier. When her brother fails to return for her from Fort William, she is cast on the mercy of the trading post owner’s family. She also draws comfort from Bemidii Marchal, a Métis hunter who soothes away her misgivings as he finds his own refuge on Lake Superior’s Madeline Island. Bemidii’s thoughts of courting a maiden are cut short when he raises his knife against a company man at Fort William’s Great Rendezvous. No one will believe he killed to protect his sister—least of all the beautiful Frenchwoman on Madeline Island who stirs his affections—not when she learns that her brother is dead and Bemidii stands accused of his murder. As the sharp blade of truth divides them, will Bemidii survive the justice of powerful men who are a law unto themselves? Or will his life—and Camilla—be lost to him forever? (Historical Romance from Iron Stream Media (Smitten Historical Romance, imprint of LPC, division of ISM))

Mystery:

Four Days Famous by Luana Ehrlich — Mylas Grey doesn’t want to be famous. Not even for a day.
As a private investigator, he prefers to fly under the radar. However, when a well-known doctor asks Mylas to investigate his father’s murder, that’s exactly what happens. Suddenly, Mylas is dodging reporters while interviewing suspects and searching for the dead man’s elusive girlfriend. (Mystery/Crime, Independently Published)

Speculative:

The Sword and the Song by Carla Laureano — With a storm on the horizon, who will stand against the darkness?
Conor and Aine have barely escaped Seare with their lives. Conor knows he must return to find the harp that could end the Red Druid’s reign of terror, but he must first see Aine safely to her family home on the isle of Amanta. When an unnatural storm tears them apart, they find themselves in even more danger than that which they fled. Because magic is not the only thing to fear in Aine’s homeland, where the Sofarende invaders harry the coasts and shifting clan alliances make it impossible to know who to trust. Conor and Aine must cling to the whispers of Comdiu’s plans for them and their enduring love for one another, even when the future looks darkest. But with betrayal at every turn, will they give into fear? Or will they learn to depend on Comdiu completely … before all hope is lost? (Speculative from Enclave Publishing)

Thriller/Suspense:

Shadow of Fear by Urcelia Teixeira — What seemed like the end was really the beginning. Enemies collide in the second installment of the toe-curling Christian Suspense Thriller that left readers gasping for more at the end of book one! Blinded by revenge of her own, she hunted down her enemies, hoping to put her past behind her. Only to find that breaking free isn’t as easy as she’d thought it would be. Blood got shed, lives lost, and now, more lives are at stake. Caught in a deadlock between enemies who won’t stop until they serve revenge, Jorja has to make a choice. Die, or make a deal with the devil. Her choice sets in motion one of the biggest assignments she has ever undertaken. One where fear threatens to seize her heart and take her soul. Can she finally break free from death’s clutches, risk it all, one last time? (Thriller Suspense, Independently Published)

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

 

  Growing a Family in Persimmon Hollow by Gerri Bauer, A temporary exile becomes a forever home. (Historical Romance)

 

  Stephen Michaels and his Upside-down Umbrella by Lana Lynne, Stephen and Nikki learn to surrender everything in this Upside-down world to the Lord. (Thriller/Suspense)

Land that I Love by Gail Kittleson

Set in the German Hill Country of Texas during World War II, Land That I Love is a sweeping literary novel of love and loss; friendship and animosity; fathers and sons; and coping during times of war and peace. Yet it is more than a love story. It is about the racism and bigotry that still exist in our world. As author Gail Kittleson’s characters struggle with the problems of everyday life, they teach us that we survive hard times by being good neighbors despite our differences and that hatred can be conquered by love, understanding and forgiveness.

When I first read this backcover copy, I thought, “Wow—a sweeping literary novel . . . I guess my hero’s life does teach readers these things.”

Yes, Everett, the hero, is a good neighbor, especially to one fellow who turns out to be not-so-friendly as time goes on. Yes, Everett refuses to allow his neighbor’s emotions (hatred) taint his perspective. And indeed, he does forgive.

It may seem strange that I don’t plan exactly what my characters’ experiences will teach people. I simply listen to their stories as they evolve . . . and keep writing.

Sometimes when they’re going through especially painful situations, I cry. I’m typing away, the tension mounts, and a great loss occurs. A wave of grief sweeps over my characters . . . and me.

I didn’t plan for this, either. But I do recall the times it has occurred, with various characters and assume it’s because they become as real to me as my next-door neighbor. The hours—days—weeks—months we spend together makes this so, for better or for worse.

Lately I’ve been working on a couple of WWII era Christmas stories, not a full-length novel. Maybe that’s because of the energy required to fully enter my character’s lives. Writing five or ten thousand words about them takes far less involvement than writing 100,000.

I do hope Everett and his wee son Donnie, along with a former butler who worked for Everett’s grandfather and became a trusted family friend, capture your hearts, as well!

When Gail’s not steeped in World War II historical research, writing, or editing, you’ll find her reading for fun, gardening, or enjoying her grandchildren in Northern Iowa. She delights in interacting with readers who fall in love with her characters.

Women of the Heartland, Gail’s World War II series, highlights women of The Greatest Generation: In Times Like These, April 2016, With Each New Dawn, February, 2017 (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, and Word Crafts Press, December, 2017.)

These heroines make do with what life hands them and face great odds with integrity. No easy outs or pat answers for their struggles – it’s the thick of World war II. The same can be said of Dottie in In This Together, Gail’s first historical novel (Wild Rose Press/Vintage Line), and of the women in her memoir, Catching Up With Daylight (WhiteFire Publishing.)

Gail Kittleson taught college expository writing and ESL before writing women’s historical fiction. From northern Iowa, she facilitates writing workshops and women’s retreats, and enjoys the Arizona Ponderosa forest in winter.

Hope Amid the Pain by Leslie L. McKee

Q&A with Leslie L. McKee:

Where did you get the inspiration for your book?

Hope Amid the Pain is based on my own experience of living with chronic pain and illness for over twenty-five years. Friends often told me that I needed to share my story, but I was always reluctant to do so, until I finally listened to God’s nudge to write my book.

What was the inspiration behind your book title? How did you come up with this acronym for HOPE (Hang On to Positive Expectations)?

Years ago, before I started writing the book, my pastor did a sermon on HOPE, and it’s something that has always stuck with me, especially on the days when I’m having a flare-up. I needed something to grab on to, to remind me that God still has a plan. This little acronym has helped me through many days, and I hope it can help others, as well.

Is this your first devotional book that you’ve written? Will there be more?

HOPE Amid the Pain is my first solo book. I have had my devotions published many other places, including three devotional compilations with Worthy/Ellie Claire, literary journals, and blogs (my own, as well as others’). I’ve had flash fiction stories published, as well.

I do hope there will be future books. I have a few ideas, and I’ve even started working on what may become a 365-day devotional journal. It’s still a work in progress.

I also have a few possible ideas for flash fiction or short stories, but those are in the early stages.

What main message are you hoping to convey to your readers?

Hope Amid the Pain is a 60-day devotional journal that will remind women living with chronic pain and illness that they’re not alone in their struggles. It is possible to hang on to positive expectations and cling to the hope that can only be found in the Lord … even while living with chronic pain and illness.

How many bookshelves/books are in your house?

Way too many! Official bookshelves? Ten (various sizes), but that’s not including the books piled in front of those shelves, in milkcrates, lining the stairs, still in boxes or plastic tubs, etc. My husband did not enjoy the amount when we moved a few years ago. He was quite excited when I got a Kindle years ago, but I still enjoy and prefer print books.

Apart from writing, what is your favorite creative outlet?

I enjoy playing piano, crocheting, and reading (which is probably no surprise ). I also enjoy Bible journaling.

Bio:

Leslie is an editor, author, and reviewer, but editing, writing, and reviewing are not merely jobs—they are her passions. Leslie is an avid reader with an eye for detail. Leslie has been a chronic pain warrior for more than twenty years, so she is familiar with the peaks and valleys associated with living with a chronic illness. She has felt God come alongside her through His Word and remind her that the battle is His and she’s not alone. Leslie is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and The Christian PEN. Her devotional journal (HOPE Amid The Pain: Hanging On to Positive Expectations When Battling Chronic Illness and Pain) was released on October 26, 2021, with Ambassador International. She has had devotionals published in Ellie Claire/Worthy Publishing compilation books, and she’s also published flash fiction stories. In her spare time, Leslie enjoys reading, playing piano, crocheting, spending time with family and friends (and her turtle!), and rooting for the NY Giants. You can find Leslie at www.leslielmckee.com or on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @leslielmckee.

Social Media Links:

Website: https://leslielmckee.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslielmckee

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslielmckee/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeslieLMcKee

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7300724.Leslie_L_McKee

Amazon author page: https://amzn.to/3aXGTkU

(@leslielmckee on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter)

Christians Read Book Catalog

I’ve mentioned my affiliation with Christians Read before. I blog every other Wednesday and have been a part of this team blog since its creation. Vicki Hinze is not only an author, but our fearless leader. She works hard to market each of us, and I’m so grateful to be a part of the group.

This is the latest publication Vicki created. Each Christians Read blogger is included, along with a recent release.

I hope you check it out!

Mercy’s Legacy by Sarah Hanks

Today I’m interviewing a character from my new book Mercy’s Legacy which releases on January 31st and is now available for pre-order. Mercy’s Legacy is the third and last book of this series (tears!) and features a new POV character. Readers have been growing attached to this girl since book one, but she’s only now matured enough to be able to tell us her story.

Meet Mercy.

No, no, not Mercy the endearing enslaved woman from the 1800s. Readers have already fallen in love with her. I’m talking about modern-day Mercy. The one who was in the womb in book one, who was age three in book two, and who is now a curious and artistic nine-year-old.

What if you haven’t read the first two books?

You can still enjoy Mercy’s Legacy without them, though you might find more enjoyment and meaning from the book if you read the other two first. (You still have time.)

On to the interview!

We’re going to say this interview takes place before Mercy makes her appearance in Mercy’s Legacy or at the beginning of the book.

Me: Hello, Mercy. Can you tell us a little about yourself? What are your interests, hobbies, etc.?

Mercy: I like to paint and draw. Art is my life. I love music, but I don’t sing or play and instrument or anything. Just listen. My mom doesn’t let me listen to everything I want to listen to, though. 

Me: Where’s your favorite place to be?

Mercy: That’s easy. My closet. I have the best room in the house, the princess room with the turret. It has a gigantic closet and I keep all my easels and art supplies in there. It’s like an art studio.

Me: Sounds enchanting. Who are you closest to?

Mercy: David, I guess, but he’s away at college a lot. He’s not as annoying as my other brother and sisters. I love Grandma Bethany, too. She’s not really my grandma. Just an old lady that’s been friends with Mom since before I was born. She’s always nice to me. So is Aunt Breanna, who isn’t really my aunt either, just Mom’s friend. She sneaks me soda and candy sometimes which is cool.

Me: What about your mom and dad?

Mercy: I love my mom and dad. It’s just that mom’s pregnant again. I hope this new baby lives and doesn’t make her sad like the others that didn’t make it. It’s hard when Mom is sad. And I love dad too, but . . . I sometimes wonder about my other dad. The one that maybe I look like. Only I can’t say that. I can’t talk about him, ‘cause they told me he’s a bad man. I shouldn’t want to know about a bad man, but I do. I think about him every day and make up stories about him in my mind. If only I could know them both, love them both.

Me: Well, Mercy, I have a feeling things are about to change for you.

You can pre-order the fulfilling conclusion of The Mercy Series here.

After being released from prison, DeAndre struggles to make a new life for himself and his family. But when his past shows up in the doorway of his art studio, begging for a place in his heart and life, he is forced to make decisions that will alter his life forever.

Nine-year-old Mercy has questions no one will answer. That is, until her brother reveals that he knows the whereabouts of her birthfather. Is the man whose blood runs in her veins a bad man like her parents told her? Or a good one? Could he fulfill the longing in her heart to truly belong?

Natassa’s been hit with one heartache after another, and she’s finding it difficult to bounce back. She longs to keep her loved ones safe and secure, but her arms don’t seem big enough to shelter everyone. Not when COVID hits, and certainly not when her daughter takes off to meet her birth father. Will Natassa find the strength she needs to pull everyone through?

In 1868, Liberty’s safety is threatened by a band of night riders and she must flee for her life. Her mother—Mercy—pleads with her to find refuge with an old family friend and Liberty’s grandmother in Georgetown. What will Liberty find when she gets there? And will she find herself along the way?

Sarah Hanks is an award-winning author of Christian fiction in both the contemporary and historical genres. After spending over a decade mostly writing and teaching Sunday school curricula for churches in her community, she finally jumped into writing fiction full time. She and her husband have eight children of their own, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family of ten lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys ear plugs in bulk.

You can find Sarah on Facebook and Instagram as @authorsarahhanks, or connect with her on sarah-hanks.com. She also loves to combat the swarm of negativity with hope-filled emails.  You can sign up for her email list here.

Christmas, Characters and Diabetes by Ann Brodeur

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Christmas, Characters and Diabetes

By Ann Brodeur

One of my favourite seasons of the year is Christmas. There isn’t much I don’t like about it: music, lights, decorated trees, watching children open presents, attending the church children’s presentations and Christmas Eve candlelight service, and sledding in the snow.

Then, of course the other things I like about the season are:

Gingerbread Houses. Shortbread cookies. Candy Canes. Hot Chocolate. Chocolate truffles. Molasses cookies. Cut-out sugar cookies loaded with icing and candy balls.

Tourtière, a selection of specialty cheeses and a Bûche de Noël.

Turkey. Cranberry Sauce. Mashed, sweet potatoes.

And homemade egg nog.

Have I made you hungry yet?

In my 2020 debut novel, SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS my heroine is a diabetic, but it doesn’t keep her from indulging once in a while. After all, Winterberry Falls, VT is the place to visit at Christmas with their month-long festival. You can bet cookies and gingerbread houses make an appearance. And some of the creations are pretty hard to resist. Even for a fictional character.

Why a diabetic character?

Well, I grew up watching my Type 1 diabetic grandmother inject herself with insulin. In fact, when I was a tween, I’d help fill her needles so she didn’t have to manage on her own during the days when she was alone. And during every one of my pregnancies, I was gestational diabetic. Christmas was a challenge those years, as I was born with a sweet tooth. Somehow leafy greens and cottage cheese missed the mark of Christmas treats.

All kidding aside, there are some great-tasting Christmas treats I discovered in magazines for diabetics that keep the glucose numbers in check. I may have made a recipe or….ten.

So when dreaming of characters for my novel, it made sense to include a character I could somewhat relate to. I try to bring some fun to the season in a healthy way for my heroine, compliments of our hero, but I also allow her the luxury of a special treat once in a while.

Are you, or someone you know, diabetic? What are your/their favourite treats to have at Christmas? For more information on Diabetes: American Diabetes Association | Research, Education, Advocacy

SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS by Ann Brodeur

Unwrapping their past – one secret at a time.

Owning her own PR firm is all reporter Stephanie Clark wants for Christmas, but the idea of running a prestigious election campaign in the country’s capital throws her stomach into knots. A last minute vacation road trip to focus and seek God’s direction for her life ends up in disaster when she gets caught in the worst snowstorm to hit Vermont in over a decade, crashing her into a small town and the one person she’d rather forget.

Former photojournalist Jason Miller hadn’t planned on being solely responsible for saving his family business from financial ruin. He’s barely keeping the newspaper in print, his News Editor has gone AWOL during the town’s most celebrated holiday festival, and reports of missing Christmas decorations have everyone on edge.

When a desperate knock at the newsroom door brings a ghost from Christmas past back into his life, can Jason make up for his prior behavior without breaking his promise to Stephanie’s father? Will Stephanie’s quest to solve the town’s Christmas caper—and uncover the truth about Jason’s disappearance—cost her everything she’s ever wanted?

ANN BRODEUR is an award-winning novelist who writes inspirational and contemporary romances offering sweet hope and happy endings.

When she’s not reading, writing, chasing after her kids or enjoying long chats with her husband, Ann can be found drinking coffee. That’s been reheated several times throughout the day. She aspires to drink a hot beverage in one sitting.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Join other readers in finding out the latest news from Ann and for bookish fun, by signing up for my newsletter on my website: https://brodeurwrites.org/

Check out novel inspiration, book reviews and more on my Pinterest page: https://www.pinterest.ca/brodeurwrites

Follow and Like my author page: https://www.facebook.com/annbrodeurauthor

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20786619.Ann_Brodeur

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ann-brodeur

Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Ann-Brodeur

Library Thing: https://www.librarything.com/author/brodeurann

SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS Purchase links:

Ebook Canada: https://amzn.to/3529fZe 

Ebook US: https://amzn.to/3p48B5y

Paperback: https://bit.ly/36aKN7h

Fiction Finder: December 2021 New Releases

December 2021 New Releases

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

Contemporary – General:

Broken Together by Brenda S. Anderson — Jennifer and Chad Taylor had dreamed of opening a coffee and cocoa shop since before they said, “I do.” When Chad is sent to prison for murder despite claiming innocence, that dream—along with their family—is shattered. After years of fighting for Chad’s release, Jennifer finally breaks free from her shame, anger, and hopelessness, and forges ahead with the dream the two of them once shared. With the help of their college-aged twins, she begins to move forward. Without Chad. When their lawyer arrives with news of evidence that may prove Chad’s innocence, a strange mixture of emotions overtakes her. Does she want Chad to return home? He isn’t the same man he once was, and she certainly isn’t the same woman. She’s worked hard to piece the remnants of their family back together, and his coming home could fracture the family once again. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Healing Skye by Janet W. Ferguson –People can’t be trusted.
Animals always made more sense than humans did to marine biologist Skye Youngblood. After her mother’s suicide, she left Alabama and never looked back. These days, she pours her heart into protecting nature’s sea creatures. When she returns to Dauphin Island, Alabama, for a temporary manatee migration study, her dark past is much too close. She can’t let her guard down. But how can she keep her heart hidden when a kind man with a genuine smile makes her want a fresh start? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

No Place Like Home by Amy R. Anguish — Roots are overrated, at least to someone like Adrian Stewart, preacher’s kid, who has never lived anywhere longer than six years. That’s why her job with MidUSLogIn, Inc. is so perfect for her—lots of travel and staying nowhere long enough to have it feel like home. But when work takes her to Memphis, TN, closer to her family for the first time in years, and in the same small office as Grayson Roberts, she starts to question her job, her lack of home, and even her memories of her rocky past with the church. Gray is intrigued by Adrian from the moment he sees her, and he’s determined to get to the bottom of why this girl who loves old movies and hums when she works won’t go to church with him. As they grow closer, he wants more, too, but how can he convince her to stay in Memphis when she doesn’t believe in home—or God? Can he use his own broken past to break through hers? (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Reclaiming Hope by Carolyn Miller — Callie Steele might be a bit… focused on work, but despite what her employers say, she enjoys her well-ordered, productive life. When she’s sent to meet the owners of an estate requiring post-hurricane landscaping, Callie meets their son, Kai Brody, a super-chilled pro surfer, who is as opposite from her as they come. Though initially smitten, Callie knows a relationship with Kai is a bad idea—a very bad idea. Kai, however, can’t help but be intrigued by someone who challenges him to make something of his life again. He’s determined to pursue her, if she’ll give him half a chance. The more time they spend together, negotiating the challenges of work, illness, and family, the more their opposing outlooks clash and connect. What do these unlikely friends really want from life? Is it best to focus on work or recreation? As Kai and Callie answers from the Lord, they also must consider if such complete opposites have enough in common to make a relationship last. (Contemporary Romance from Celebrate Lit)

The Breakup Project by Carolyn Miller –As the twin sister of hockey’s hottest forward, romance-loving Bree Karlsson is used to being ignored, leading to a New Year’s resolution to not date any athlete in her attempt to find Mr. Right. But what happens when the man who might prove to be her personal Mr. Darcy is her brother’s hockey-playing best friend? Mike Vaughan might be happy playing in Boston, but he’d be even happier if Bree could one day see him as more than a good friend. He agrees to help Bree with a special project in the hope she’ll finally see him as something more. But when a misunderstanding ends in a Valentine’s Day disaster, Bree realizes that her breakup project may have broken her friendship with Mike in two. Can she ever redeem her mistake? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Their Yuletide Healing by Mindy Obenhaus — Foster mom Rae Girard’s determined to make her children’s first Christmas with her the best they’ve ever had—and she’s shocked when the town scrooge, attorney Cole Heinsohn, offers to pitch in. Rae’s young charges have melted Cole’s heart, and he wants them to experience the special day he never had. But when disaster strikes, an imperfect holiday might bring them something better: a family… (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

General Historical:

Elinor by Shannon McNear — In 1587, Elinor White Dare sailed from England heavy with her first child but full of hopes. Her father, a renowned artist and experienced traveler, has convinced her and her bricklayer husband Ananias to make the journey to the New World. Land, they are promised, more goodly and beautiful than they can ever imagine. But nothing goes as planned from landing at the wrong location, to facing starvation, to the endless wait for help to arrive. And, beyond her comprehension, Elinor finds herself utterly alone. The colony at Roanoke disappeared into the shadows of history. But what if one survived to leave a lasting legacy? (General Historical from Barbour Publishing)

What Matters Most by Carol Ashby — For ten years, the incorruptible Tribune Titianus enforced Rome’s laws. He’s four days from leaving the Urban Cohort to teach at his brother-in-law Kaeso’s school when Emperor Hadrian and the Praetorian Prefect draft him to secretly investigate and thwart an assassination plot…one that might involve his own commander. He can’t refuse, but if Hadrian’s enemies discover his Christian faith, will it mean death for everyone he loves? The new tribune Glabrio wants two things as Titianus trains him: to discover for their commander who Titianus is investigating and to gain the support of Titianus’s powerful relatives. Marrying Sabina would secure the backing of her grandfather, but because of the teacher, she’s making choices no noblewoman should. As he gets closer to both his goals, will he realize in time what matters most? (General Historical from Cerrillo Press)

Romance Novella:

A Covert Cowboy Christmas by Carol James — A December ice storm destroys Rebekah Kingston’s Christmas plans. With the power out and the West Texas roads closed indefinitely, she’s forced to spend Christmas at her brother Braden’s ranch instead of at home with her parents. But Rebekah and Braden are not alone. Also stranded is an annoyingly chatty ranch hand, Dirk Sims. While Rebekah is certain she’s met him before, Dirk insists she’s mistaken. 
However, when Rebekah inadvertently eavesdrops on one of Dirk’s phone conversations, she discovers his lie. Dirk is not who he seems. This Christmas just got interesting. (Romance Novella from White Rose Publishing (Pelican))

Suspense/Thriller:

Buried Cold Case Secrets by Sami A. Abrams — She can’t remember and he can’t forget. When a killer targets Melanie, it is only through her determination to relive the past and Jason’s willingness to let go of his resentment, can they find his sister’s killer and keep Melanie alive. (Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Stealth Insurgence by Vikki Kestell — Nanostealth | Book 5: Jayda and Zander are returning to Albuquerque, satisfied that they have completed the mission for which President Jackson called them to Washington DC. They are filled with hope for the future, bursting with joy for the unborn child Jayda carries, and keen to share the news of their blessing with those they love: Abe, Emilio, Dr. Bickel, Zander’s parents, and his sister, Izzie. They arrive in Albuquerque on a notable date: the one-year anniversary of General Cushing’s attack on Dr. Bickel’s lab hidden within the tunnels of the old Manzano Weapons Storage Facility. It was the same attack that incited the nanomites to take up occupancy in Gemma Keyes—now Jayda Cruz —the extraordinary event that will continue to impact their lives forever. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published)

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

 

  Hidden Danger by Jerusha Agen, The greatest threat to this K-9 team is the one they don’t see coming. (Thriller/Suspense)

 

  Footprints on Her Heart by Tabitha Bouldin, He’s saving the world, one animal at a time. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  A Christmas Home for Hannah by Joi Copeland, A rancher in need of a wife or he loses his everything. A promise to her grandfather to be a mail order bride just may be unfulfilled. (Historic Romance)

 

  An Awestruck Christmas Medley by Emily Conrad, Four hundred miles of snow-covered terrain stand between the men of Awestruck and a Christmas with loved ones. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Rachel’s Road to Love – Great Smoky Mountain Getaways by Elsie Davis, Escape to the Great Smoky Mountains… Rachel trusts God’s plan for her life, but did that plan really include being left at the altar?
(Contemporary)

 

  The Corporal’s Codebook by Susan Page Davis, Jack Miller stumbles through the Civil War, winding up a telegrapher and cryptographer for the army. In the field with General Sherman in Georgia, he is captured along with his precious cipher key. (General Historical)

 

  Grace Beneath the Frost by Christine Dillon, Professional success. Personal failure. (General Contemporary)

 

  The Christmas Family by Linda Goodnight, With the holidays in sight, Brady wonders if his own Christmas wish could come true… (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Gifts: A Christmas Novella by Jeanette Hanscome, When the party guests include faces from her past, Justine must decide whether to keep running or receive a gift that might free her to give much more than her beautifully wrapped presents. (General Contemporary)

 

  Harper’s Hollers by Ruth Kyser, Will God bring them together as more than friends—or will circumstances beyond their control keep them apart? (Contemporary Romance)

Love Under Construction by Penny Zeller

Love Under Construction Character Inspiration: Cynthia Brady

One of the most exhilarating things as an author is developing characters. In our imaginary worlds, we create characters with personalities, hopes, dreams, and motivations. Of course, the main characters are the best to create, and they stick with us writers for much longer than after we’ve typed the words “The End” on the manuscript. But what about secondary characters? Those in the supporting roles, whether good or bad?

How many times have we seen the memes and coffee mugs warning people that if they are crusty, crabby, or just plain difficult, they may find themselves in the pages of our next novel? To be sure, we writers have all had “influences” that have woven their way into our creativity and starred as the antagonist(s) in our books.

What about the godly secondary characters? The mentors, the ones offering discipleship, the loving parent, grandparent, friend, or relative?

For my most recent novel, Love Under Construction, I needed a secondary character to play the role of Cynthia Brady, my main character, Irelynn’s, mother. It couldn’t be just any secondary, but a woman full of faith, one who loved and was there for Irelynn, and who had struggles of her own.

Cue my mom.

Just like Cynthia Brady, my own mom (ironically, or maybe not so ironically, named Cindee) fit the bill. She is a strong woman, not only in the sense of personality, but, even more importantly, a strong woman of faith. Life has not been easy for her in the past decade, with diagnoses of scleroderma, fibromyalgia, and severe chronic pain. From the time I was a young girl, she tenderly guided me through the challenges of life with a listening ear, a hug, andwise words of advice. Most importantly, through the years, she has discipled me in my walk with the Lord.

Cynthia Brady does the same for Irelynn. At this moment in her life, Irelynn faces some huge obstacles. The main theme of Love Under Construction is relying on God during all times—the good and the bad. A tender and uplifting story with plenty of humor, this novel also touches on the topics of motherhood, adoption, financial challenges, and PTSD.

While there are some differences between Cynthia and my mom, namely Cynthia doesn’t struggle to the same degree with her health and she has raised Irelynn single-handedly, there are similarities.

Everyone has a story, and every story is filled with ups and downs, crabby characters and cheerful characters. As you go about your day, try being the type of “character” that makes someone’s story happier and better.

Blurb:

She builds websites. He builds houses. Together, can they build a family for two orphans?

Irelynn agreed two years ago to help raise her best friend’s twins should anything happen. When she is called upon to fulfill that agreement, there is only one problem—Irelynn must share the responsibility with the arrogant but handsome Quinton Gregory.

Quinton takes the role of raising his niece and nephew with all seriousness. He will do anything for the twins, even if it means putting up with the beautiful but stubborn Irelynn Brady.

When forced to be in each other’s presence far more often than is comfortable, things slowly begin to change. Will the unexpected attraction between Irelynn and Quinton become a love under construction?

Bio:

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics. Today Penny is a multi-published author of several inspirational books. She is also a homeschool mom and a fitness instructor.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters while camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, cycling, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her www. pennyzeller.com and her blog, random thoughts from a day in the life of a wife, mom, and author, at www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com.

Find Penny at:

Website: https://pennyzeller.com/

Blog: www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PennyZeller

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennyzeller/

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

Great American Smokeout

I remember in elementary school our health class listened to comedy tapes from Bob Newhart and Bob Hope and it mentioned smoking. Then our teacher handed out an illustrated booklet about how smoking is bad and we should never start. That was in the late 70’s/early 80’s and I think back then they didn’t know how devastating the impact of smoking, even on occasion, would be on the body.

I didn’t need the speech. My parents both smoked, and in the house. Their generation didn’t know the effects of smoking, in fact, marketing ruled and everything they saw and were told was that smoking was trendy, fashionable, glamourous, and kept you focused and trim. By the time my sister and I were in school, we knew the truth.

It was our job every year to clean the ceiling tiles in the kitchen. There was nothing glamourous about what we saw. Those tiles were supposed to be pristine white. They were tar brown.

By the time I was a teen, the ill effects of smoking were becoming more recognized and I hated every second of my parents smoking. I begged, pleaded, whined for them to stop. They admitted it wasn’t that they didn’t want to, they just could not. By the time I was eighteen, we at least convinced them to smoke in the garage.

When I went to college I honestly looked down at those who smoked, even if it was just at parties. I hated it. Although I certainly didn’t walk away from alcohol at the time despite the alcoholism in our family, smoking was a deal breaker for me.

When I married, I learned my husband was a smoker until he accepted Christ, which honestly was weeks before he asked me out. I remember being so bothered by it because although older than me, he had to know how bad it was for him and those around him.

Our kids were raised in a smoke free environment. When grandparents visited they could smoke outside, but we wished they would not at all. By the time our daughter was born, she had chronic health issues where we nearly lost her. A month after that, my father was diagnosed with lung cancer. He was dead shortly after his sixty-forth birthday.

My mom was widowed at 60. Because of smoking.

I saw his last hours. I can still hear the oxygen rhythm and the pit in my stomach. Working as I did for a time with senior citizens, I remember visiting nursing homes and there was a distinct smell of death. I walked in and smelled it. I knew, knew it was his last day on earth.

I recall being the last to speak to him in a way he was able to respond. The morphine was administered for pain. His muscle spasms and jerks haunted us for years.

There is nothing fashionable or glamourous about smoking.

What was most difficult to accept was after that, mom still smoked. Not as much, but she was only able to stop in the last couple years of her life. Although lung cancer wasn’t her cause of death, smoking absolutely contributed to it. She was in shock at the toll it had took on her body when the doctor explained everything. After everything she admitted she just thought it was a bad habit with no toxic effects to worry about.

I blame smoking for why my sister and I are left without parents. Sure, they were senior citizens by government definition when they passed, but neither made it to 80. Dad didn’t even make 65. We were robbed of years with them. You can’t convince me otherwise.

One thing about our choices that we rarely take into consideration are the long-term consequences. All the fast food as teens and young adult can lead to high cholesterol. Eating sugar all the time is a sure way to a diabetic diagnosis. Drink alcohol to excess for years on end and you’ve soaked your liver. Smoking is the same. You pick it up once and the ability to stop is not easy. Yet each day you say no after you’ve started, there is redemption for your body.

My parents aren’t the only ones who had health issues because of smoking. I get chronic sinus infections and bronchitis. I’ve had pneumonia more than once. My doctor asked if I smoked and when I said absolutely not, he asked if I had been around second hand smoke. That is so toxic. I remember mom asking me why I get so sick all the time. I didn’t have the heart to tell her. But I think deep down she knew.

Please, please, PLEASE. If you smoke in any capacity, and VAPERS, I put you in this category because the lungs deteriorate at a faster rate, please seek help. The Cancer Society has resources. Find an accountability partner. Do whatever it takes to stop. Your life depends on it.

Julie ARduini

You are too precious to lose.

Journey to ChiYah by Kimberly Russell

I’d like to thank Julie for the opportunity to share about my recent release, Journey to ChiYah, a Christian fantasy novel about a gal that goes on an unexpected trip filled with surprises.

Journey is my personal overcomer story and is a delicate balance of my life experiences, hybrid facts, and plain old fiction, where the main character, Jade Pepperdine, finds healing and freedom from her past. Let’s get to know her…

Kimberly: Thanks for joining me today.

Jade: You’re welcome, but I don’t get it. You already know all this stuff.

K: True, but I think the world needs to hear from you. How about we start with some background?

J: *disgruntled sigh* Fine. I’m 34 and live in small-town-nowhere-you’ve-ever-heard-of. I’m named after my great-aunt, Jade Edith Pepperdine. My mother likes to use this as her favorite ‘Momism’ and taunt me about being ‘Jaded.’ She can be sooo annoying.

K: Ah, yes, your mother. Care to elaborate?

J: Mom used to be a pretty sore subject for me, but things have changed. In me, anyway. She isn’t much different, still sharp tongued and critical, but we’re doing much better these days.

K: Why’s that?

J: *eye roll* You already know it’s because of ChiYah.

K: Tell us about your journey.

J: I got stuck there and met this really weird guy who was the Mayor. All I wanted to do was go home, but he insinuated I had issues and needed to be fixed because I was broken.

K: Yikes. That must’ve been hard to take.

J: It really ticked me off at first, but he wasn’t wrong. I know I can be high maintenance, and I’d noticed that my life was crumbling.

K: How so?

J: A lot of it had to do with Mom—we just couldn’t seem to get along. Plus, I was having trouble at work with being temperamental and cranky. Contentious with co-workers. All kinds of stuff.

K: No, not you?

J: Very funny. I was dealing with a lot of fear, too, which brought out my inner-control freak in an attempt to avoid it, and then I’d get mad when it didn’t work. Anger became my default because my temper seemed to sit on the edge of explosion at all times. It was a big, vicious cycle I couldn’t seem to break out of, even though I knew things needed to change. I just didn’t know what to do.

K: Makes perfect sense. Facing ourselves is never easy. So, Mayor offered to help with all this?

J: He did—if I agreed to his quest thingy before I went home.

K: Whoa, that sounds like blackmail.

J: No, I had a choice, but he helped me see that it really was in my best interest. He’s really caring and stuff. Super kind.

K: You’re glad you went on the journey?

J: Very much so. Mayor helped me see… me. What was going on inside and how stuff that happened when I was little was affecting me today.

K: Wow. That’s profound.

J: Believe me, though, the quest was anything but easy. Especially since I wasn’t the most cooperative. It was a long and twisty road, but I wouldn’t change any of it.

K: I see. Tell me about now? Post-ChiYah?

J: Things are way better. Not perfect, but much improved. I don’t feel so alone, have more hope, and less fear. And Mom and I are coming along nicely. *smile* But people really need to read the whole story for themselves. Journey to ChiYah is at Amazon, right?

K: It is indeed, and thank you for the PSA.

J: You’re welcome. I’ll send you a bill. Hey, didn’t I hear that if readers sign up for your newsletter they get the first two chapters?

K: Sure can. They can go here or to my website.

J: Sweet.

K: Anything to add?

J: Just that I’m nothing more than a mess with a message. Nothing special. I hope that by sharing my story, others may decide to deal with their own junk. Trust me, it’s a journey worth going on. I dare you to check out my adventure, and who knows? Maybe, like me, you’ll find someone you never knew you lost… yourself.

Kimberly Russell lives in a tiny house in southern lower Michigan with Toby, the Shih Tzu, who allows her to be his roommate.

Retired for four years, Kim’s day job was that of civil servant in the Michigan Department of Corrections at the local prison complex. She served as Warden’s Secretary under two female wardens in a three-prison complex of 2500 medium security inmates.

The highlight of Kimberly’s career was the role of Program Coordinator for the first inmate-dog training program in the MDOC. Since its inception in 2003, thousands of rescued greyhounds and “pound puppies” have been through the program, and it has expanded to many other facilities in the Michigan system.

Kim began writing in 2009 after she joined an on-line writing community called FaithWriters and regularly participated in their weekly writing challenge. High-ranking finishes led to publication in the 2015 & 2017 FaithWriters anthologies.

Branching out to become a columnist for a local entertainment publication called Frank Talk was a challenge. The publisher allowed Kim to be a guest contributor in their “Critter Corner” but was hesitant to add a fictional component. After a trial run of The Adventures of Miranda DailyLife, Kim authored the column for over a year and enjoyed an enthusiastic readership.

Kim has also been published in Dog Life Magazine and has three full- length manuscripts from participation in the National Novel Writing Month challenge held in November each year (writing a 50,000 word novel in 30 days.) One of these-Photo Finish-is her next project—stay tuned!

When not hanging out in her favorite place on earth—the She Shed— and creating literary magic, Kim is a pickleball fiend, playing several times a week. She also loves to read, enjoys a somewhat mediocre golf game, and is a tech geek.

Links

Purchase Journey to ChiYah at Amazon:  http://mybook.to/JourneyToChiYah

Sign up for Kim’s newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/i9urolq

Amazon Author Page:  author.to/KimsAuthorPage

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SharingHopeThroughWords

Web Site:  https://www.kimberlykrussell.com/

GoodReads:  https://rebrand.ly/7w5hxhj

BookBub:  https://rebrand.ly/zq2je6a