Julie Arduini's Blog, page 6
September 1, 2024
Fiction Finder September 2024
September 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website
Contemporary General:
Kristen by Dawn M Klinge — In this heartwarming tale, discover the extraordinary potential that lies within embracing the present and opening one’s heart to the unanticipated blessings of life’s sweetest surprises.(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Escape to Whispering Creek by Barbara M Britton — Can a gregarious office manager and rehabilitating business owner find love while fighting accusations of white-collar crime (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])
Before We Were Us by Denise Hunter — A temporary position at a rustic resort leads Lauren to the love of her life and a drastic career change. But on the eve of her engagement, an unfortunate fall leaves her unable to remember any of it. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
The Farmer and Adele by Candice Sue Patterson — Second chances aren’t for the faint of heart. (Contemporary Romance Independently Published [ACFW QIP])
Historical:
Patriot at the River by Jayna Baas — With the help of some unlikely allies, a young Patriot militiaman must save his settlement from the man who had a hand in his father’s death. (Historical, Independently Published)
New Star by Lana Christian — You may know about the Wise Men’s part in Jesus’ story—but do you know the Wise Men’s story? (OR) How far would you go to protect what you believe in? (Historical from Scrivenings Press)
Historical Romance:
The Gamekeeper’s Reluctant Bride by Elva Cobb Martin — She fled from a gilded cage, only to find herself trapped in a marriage of obligation. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett — She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love? (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)
Virginia by Shannon McNear — Return to the “what if” questions surrounding the Lost Colony and explore the possible fate of Virginia Dare–the first English child born in the New World. What happened to her after her grandfather John White returned to England and the colony he established disappeared into the mists of time? Legends abound, but she was indeed a real girl who, if she survived to adulthood, must have also become part of the legacy that is the people of the Outer Banks. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)
A Token of Love by Carrie Turansky — In this heartfelt dual-time tale, bestselling author Carrie Turansky weaves a story of two women whose lives intertwine through their shared pursuit of love, truth, and justice (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])
Freedom Through the Narrow Gate by Mark David Pullen — Follow Jacob as he leaves the safety of the mouse village for a taste of blackberries and a daring adventure, only to come face to face with the menacing Swamp Rats and their vicious leader, Caine. (Middle-grade/Chapter Books from Morgan James Publishing)
Road Trip Return by Becca Wierwille — A twelve-year-old boy must save his brother from making the biggest mistake of his life—even if that means embarking on an international adventure to the last place in the world he wants to go. (Middle-grade/Chapter Books from Beloved Chronicles LLC)
A Journey for Amy by Diane Craver — As the feelings between Amy and Joe grow deeper, can they overcome their dissimilar faiths, or will their differences pull them apart? (Romance from Vinspire Publishing)
A Lancaster Amish Christmas by Anne Blackburne, Amy Clipston, Amy Lillard and Mindy Steele — Four Stories of Romance by Four Authors set in the Heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania’s Amish Country. (Amish Romance from Barbour Publishing)
Lethal Standoff by DiAnn Mills — A female negotiator and a male investigative journalist work place their lives in danger to seek the release of undocumented immigrants hostages from kidnappers who harbor desperate secrets. (Romantic Suspense from Tyndale House)
K-9 Ranch Protection by Darlene L Turner — Police constable Izzy Tremblay knows her father’s death was no accident, so when she finally discovers a lead and is immediately attacked, her suspicions are confirmed. For protection, she takes refuge with her ex-partner, Austin Murray, on his K-9 ranch while she races to uncover the truth. But with danger still lurking, can they stay alive long enough to take down a killer? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
No Forgetting Providence by Lee Wimmer — Running from faith led DR on a path of untold success, but also put crosshairs on him, is it providence, or is it something else? (Romantic Suspense from Hightower Publications)
Heidi’s Faith by Jill Dewhurst — God uses a painting and a young man helping his neighbors to strengthen a young woman’s faith and enable her to overcome debilitating fear following a traumatic event. (Western from Independently Published)
The Immortal Abyss by Katherine Briggs — Nations rise and fall in the aftermath of war over the Eternity Gate. The corrupted desert throne stands empty, and the Immortal Abyss awakens. Drought ravages the continent, and people long for the rebirth of a starpalm, who will rise from among mortals and end their judgment. (Young Adult from Enclave Publishing [Oasis Family Media])
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Murder Goes Caroling by Malissa Chapin — Ringing in the holidays just hit a sour note. With mayhem threatening to turn festive carols into dirges, can a gifted pianist unmask a nasty scrooge? (Cozy Mystery)
The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary by Danielle Grandinetti — Romance, history and intrigue at Our House on Sycamore Street. (General Historical)
The Marble Hill Crime Blotter by BD Lawrence — Life in a small town isn’t always as serene as one might think. The Marble Hill Crime Blotter is a series of thrilling stories that follow Police Chief Tom Petrosky and State Police Forensics Specialist Patricia Johnson. (Mystery/police procedural)
La Elegida para Harley by Heidi Gray McGill — Esperaban una novia por encargo y obtuvieron más de lo que esperaban. (They were expecting a custom bride and got more than they bargained for.) (General Historical)
Hidden Danger by Gail Pallotta — Left at the altar, Emily Hanover flees to Sky High Campground to put her life back together, but danger strikes in the night. Harassed by a man who seems to disappear into thin air, Emily and Nick, the security guard, discover a sinister plot, never dreaming danger could bring romance. (Romantic Suspense)
Captured in Frame by Laura Thomas — Desperate to begin a new chapter after a heartbreaking betrayal, Canadian photographer Georgia Brooks retreats to her quaint English cottage—only to discover she could be in possession of incriminating evidence framing a criminal ring in the ugly underbelly of the art world (Romantic Suspense)
August 30, 2024
Another Pruning
It was around Memorial Day I said goodbye to a ministry I have loved serving with—youth. I will champion for teens louder and longer than any age group, and that includes my own.
To live a surrendered and free life in Christ is uncomfortable at times. If I did things my way, I’d be in youth until they locked me out. But I want that ministry to thrive, and that means I had to be obedient.
My time for this season is with Women’s Ministry and it has seen growth and transition in a way I’ve had to focus on this more than other things.
Now to bookend the summer holidays, Labor Day time is when I just said goodbye to a ministry I’ve been involved in for maybe 15 years? All I know is I think the founder and I were the only ones left from the remaining team.
Christians Read is a blog comprised of Christian authors sharing devotionals, thoughts, book reviews, writing projects and more. When I started blogging there I wasn’t published. My child I believe was about to start school. I have ten published books and that child is a junior in college. God has been good.
Again, it would be easy to stay with it. I blog every other Friday, how hard is that? Well, honestly, it has been hard. I’ve felt for a while it was a time to let go and trust God has something better for those readers.
John 15:5 comes to mind because it makes no sense. How can I bloom if I keep getting trimmed back? I’ve seen the answer play out in my roses. When I prune them, they come back so much better. A beautiful bounty and an even better fragrance.
I want my life to be a beautiful fragrance to God. If I held on to my wants, it might look good to the world, but I’d be disobedient. And that’s a garbage stench to my Heavenly Father.
With these changes, not only can I devote energy to the women that they deserve, but I am also starting to have time to write. I’m way behind in Building Hearts, Evan Hart’s story in Surrendering Hearts #3.
I also joined a multi-author small-town romance novella project with release dates in 2025 and 2026. I am so excited about this, and you’ll hear more as the project comes closer. God has poured so many ideas and puzzle pieces together that I can’t wait to dive in.
Obedience is a life-long choice. I’d love to tell you it comes easy and I have it all perfected. The truth is I lament, drag my feet, and at times whine. But I’ve been around long enough to testify there is nothing sweeter than yielding to God’s plan. His ways are perfect and I trust Him.
You can read my last Christians Read post HERE.
August 26, 2024
Muldoon’s Misfortunes by E.V. Sparrow
Book Synopsis:
A cursed widower forsakes his faith to ensure his hope.
On a verdant island beset by poverty and death, Mick Muldoon dares to escape his misfortunes. Is working a farm and raising a family such an impossible thing to ask? Wasn’t God supposed to answer prayers—not turn a deaf ear?
After surviving the treacherous voyage to America, Mick discovers the rumors of ample opportunity aren’t exactly true. His defective body hampers employment and keeps him dependent upon his peculiar sister. However, an unexpected invitation to move to the heartland guarantees his dreams.
Mick’s own dreadful choices hamper his hopes when he accepts work as a widow’s farmhand. Unbeknownst to him, there’s deception afoot. Mick’s inattention to love causes catastrophe as single fatherhood cruelly shatters his family. Will God miraculously hear his prayers this time?
In Book 1 of Those Resilient Muldoons series, this misguided, wayward widower encounters God’s unexpected presence.
Author Bio:
Sparrow has served on missions, worship, and prayer teams and in Divorce Care and Single’s Ministry. She’s now a published short story writer turned novelist. Sparrow offers readers encounters with God’s unexpected presence through her character’s adventures. She once bought a one-way ticket to Israel to work on a kibbutz and spent a weekend hopping a freight train. As Grammy to seven grandchildren, they ask why she always buys them books.
Release date: July 16, 2024
ASIN: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CZN8NX2C
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Categories: Historical Irish Fiction, Religious Historical Fiction (Books) Christian Fiction, Fiction
Pages length: 351
Cost: eBook $2.99, paperback $14.99
Series information:
Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling (Novella)
Muldoon’s Misfortunes (Book One)
Madam Muldoon’s Garden (Book Two)
Salvaging the Muldoons (Book Three)
Reader/author endorsements:
“E.V. Sparrow’s novel, Muldoon’s Misfortunes, absorbs readers into nineteenth century America and the Irishman, Mick Muldoon’s, adventures. Mick, an interesting and entertaining character, springs to life and keeps readers turning the pages.”—John “Jack” M. Cunningham, Jr.
Author of Vengeance & Betrayal, Notable Book Award Finalist 2021and River Ruckus, Bloody Bay. Also a contributing writer for David C. Cook Publishers.
“Be prepared to fall in love with the unique hero in Muldoon’s Misfortunes. Mick Muldoon grapples with the vagaries of life that seems to take him from one tragedy to the next in 19th Century Ireland and America. E.V. Sparrow captures the heart of the Irish people as well as she does the rhythm of their lyrical dialect. With a mixture of humor and pathos, she keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.”—Susan Pope Sloan
Author of Rescuing Rose (Rescued Hearts of the Civil War Book 1) Loving Lydia (Book 2) Managing Millie (Book 3) and Seeking Simon (Book 4).
“E.V. Sparrow is a master at showing emotion. Sparrow’s use of descriptive narration, active verbs, and deep point of view pulls readers into the story. In Muldoon’s Misfortunes, Sparrow has crafted a powerful tale of loss and redemption.”—Heidi Glick
Author of Dog Tags, Hold for Release,and 12 Days of Christmas.
Radio interviews or podcasts:
https://www.blogtalkradio.com/deepdishdiscussions/2023/09/19/author-e-v-sparrow blog radio interview with host Shamielle Alston
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2xUDJ1o4Gg interview with Deena Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ygzHe0JZt4 podcast interview with Jeannine Bennett, Your Story Within
https://sites.libsyn.com/441480/author-ev-sparrow-second-interview podcast interview with Jennifer Sienes, Between the Lines
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Muldoons-Misfortunes-Those-Resilient-Book-ebook/dp/B0CZN8NX2C/
Top Reader Reviews:
Tamelia Aday 
Historical fiction by E.V. Sparrow is something you won’t want to miss. It brings to light the hardships that many of our ancestors went through in search of a better life for their future and future generations. It tells of the sacrifices they made for their families and children. This is a tale of Mick Muldoon, and you will be on his side. You’ll groan through his mistakes and feel empathy for his losses and cheer for his victories.
A rich story of human accomplishment that tugs at your heartstrings. E.V. Sparrow writes with an authentic, knowledgeable voice, and you won’t want to put this book down. An emotional heartfelt debut.
Dee Aspin
EV Sparrow creates intriguing dialogue and scenes in this 19th century character named Mick, an actual immigrant from her family tree. Because it is based on a true story, I enjoyed the read even more. I was astonished to realize how many obstacles the early settlers endured from the moment they landed in pursuit of freedom in America. Anyone who loves history and learning about different people and cultures will enjoy this book!
Lynette Scalora-Palacios
I was captivated by the story of Mick Muldoon’s challenges as he made his way to America for a better life.
Once I started reading, I had a hard time putting this book down. The author has a way with details to pull you into the story and keep your interest. I look forward to reading the next two books to learn about Mick’s life as he settles in this great land.
Lynn Watson
An honest saga of the trials and misfortunes of Irish immigrants–their plight in Ireland, the superstitions that haunted them, and the circumstances and prejudices they faced in America. E.V. Sparrow’s characters are well-developed, and she paints a vivid story world. Her writing promises the reader hope even when things look desperate and impossible.
Possible trigger warnings: the reality of alcoholism, the trauma of multi-losses of loved ones.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210630737-muldoon-s-misfortunes
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/muldoon-s-misfortunes-those-resilient-muldoons-book-1-by-e-v-sparrow
Author’s Social Media:
Linktr.ee has all the links including buy links: https://linktr.ee/ev.sparrow
https://www.instagram.com/erin.sparrow.world/
https://www.facebook.com/sparrowwriter/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-e-v-s-3438918/
https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B084F45QJ2
https://sparrow.world
https://mailchi.mp/475597e34cd3/sparrowworld
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/29663267.E_V_Sparrow
Publisher: Celebrate Lit Publishing Group
For more information, contact:
Sandy Barela
Celebrate Lit Publishing Group
August 12, 2024
Starry Starry Night by D.K. Till
Interview with D. K. Till, author of new release Starry Starry Night, Book I
in her Time Passengers series.
Where did you get the idea for a time travel book?
I have always loved time travel and futuristic stories and movies. The Back to the Future trilogy was an all-time favorite. The twists and turns in the plots made me delightfully dizzy, but also made me wonder, hey, can I create my own delightfully twisty time-travel story that readers won’t want to put down?
Do you think you succeeded?
I believe my readers will enjoy their trip into the future.
How far into the future does it take place?
The Time Passengers in Starry Starry Night live and work a hundred years from now, in 2120. In their first trip to the future, they travel as far forward as a hundred years (technically 98.63 years, or 36,000 days) which lands them in January of 2219. In that world, people travel via rocket ships and speak an unrecognizable language.
Can they travel back in time also?
They can and do, going as far back as 1995. However, their time machine will not let them go further back than October of 1969. Why, you ask? It’s all explained in the book!
Which one was more interesting for you as a writer, traveling back in time, or forward?
The funnest part to write was imagining the world in a hundred years. If current trends hold true, what will life look like in the future? I had to ask a lot of what if’s.
What if warming trends continue? How will future citizens deal with it? Answer: with supertrees, “engineered to grow faster, taller, wider than natural trees.”
What if cars become obsolete, how will people transport themselves? Answer: in autopods that fly on remote control technology! “The autopod lifts into the air like a twenty-first-century helicopter.”
What if we run low on water? Answer: The ocean. “I pour myself a cup of desalinated ocean mineral water.”
As my character Katrice declares, “The future can be anything I imagine it to be.”
Let me introduce you to my story! You can preorder it here:
Learn more about me and sign up for my newsletter here: www.dktill.com
Starry Starry Night: Time Passengers, Book I
2019 – Paige Ferguson and her husband, Kyler, are enjoying life as newlyweds when they learn she is pregnant with twins. Her new friend, Katrice, offers a fun diversion when she asks Paige to read her time-traveling story. When Katrice disappears, Paige’s search for answers cause her to question everything she thought she knew about her friend. Who was Katrice? A dabbler in the dark side of life, or an ordinary girl who fell victim to a dangerous villain? A serious pregnancy complication threatens Paige’s future with Kyler and her babies. Will she survive childbirth, and will she ever see Katrice again?
2120 – The USA has disappeared, security robots roam everywhere, and cars are a thing of the past. Tree and her boyfriend, Glim, like all citizens of the new nation of Normerica, live in dorms and travel in flying autopods. Glim has perfected the science of time travel, and they set out to explore the future and the past. Curious about an ancient murder that impacted Tree’s family, they travel back in time in hopes of altering history. But Tree suspects there’s more to the story when Glim starts behaving oddly. So she follows him into the past. What she finds there flips her world upside down. If she returns to her home year, her very life could be at risk. Will she stay trapped in the past, or will she find a way to escape the peril awaiting her?
Welcome to the world of D. K. Till, where The Future and The Present collide.
D.K. Till writes Split-Time Fiction With A Twist, a blend of the dual timeline fiction she enjoys mixed with a big helping of the sci-fi she loved as a child. The indie author from the land of microbrews and coffee snobs fell in love with reading in kindergarten when her older sister taught her to read. She used to impress her parents’ friends by reading aloud the entire short story The One Hundred Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins. In first grade, she knew she wanted to write stories, too. Throughout her childhood and teens, she either had her nose in a book or was attempting to write one.
But life got in the way, marriage and children set her dreams aside for higher purposes. Today, with children grown and retirement pending, she’s reopened that dream package and is now living the life she had only imagined.
The author is a huge fan of the Back to the Future trilogy, inspiring her to write time travel, too. Thus the Time Passengers series was born. A classic rock lover, she plans to name her titles after hit rock songs of the 70s. After the release of Starry Starry Night, be on the lookout for books #2 and #3, Midnight Rider and Nights in White Satin.
July 31, 2024
Fiction Finder: August 2024 New Releases
August 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website
Biblical:
A Certain Man by Linda Dindzans — Mara is a young Samaritan beginning to discover her love for Samuel—and his for her. Soon she will be deemed mature enough to marry. Her hopes are dashed when her greedy father brokers a match with the cruel son of the wealthy High Priest of Shechem. When her loathsome betrothed is killed, her beloved Samuel must run for his life. Mara and Samuel struggle to survive and reunite during the treacherous and scandalous times of the Bible under the merciless rule of Rome. (Biblical/Historical from Scrivenings Press)
Between the Sound and Sea by Amanda Cox — Every family has its secrets. Josephina Harris wouldn’t mind if her family still had a few of their own after a lawsuit tarnishes their name. When an opportunity opens to become a temporary keeper of a decommissioned lighthouse on a North Carolina island, she jumps at the chance to escape her small town to oversee its restoration. As the work begins, “Joey” discovers strange notes tucked deep in the crevices of the old stone walls–pages torn from a lighthouse keeper’s log signed by someone named Mae who recounts harrowing rescues at sea. Fascinated by a woman lighthouse keeper, Joey digs into the past only to discover there’s never been a record of a lighthouse keeper by that name. When things start to go amiss on the island, locals are convinced that it is the ghost of the lighthouse keeper and his daughter who were lost at sea during World War II. As Joey sifts through decades of rumors and legends and puts together the pieces of the past, what emerges is a love story–one that’s not over yet. (Contemporary from Revell)
One Glance of Your Eyes by Myra Johnson — With a heart for lifting men out of homelessness, Carl Anderson is a dedicated counselor-in-residence in a transitional home. When recent setbacks threaten the program’s continuation, he proposes an innovative plan to increase success by pairing at-risk residents with shelter dogs. One glance from Carl’s stunning new supervisor, and he’s convinced his proposal doesn’t stand a chance. Rae Caldwell admires Carl’s passion, but for her, every canine encounter is a heart-rending reminder of her late daughter’s final months and the loyal service dog who never left her side . . . and the tragic end of a marriage too shattered by grief to heal. As they collaborate on the pilot program, Carl catches glimpses of the vulnerable woman beneath Rae’s chilly façade. Reluctant smiles turn to stolen glances and unspoken hopes for something more—until their carefully guarded pasts intrude and everything goes awry. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published [ACFW QIP])
Bonding with the Cowboy’s Daughter by Lisa Jordan — After a broken engagement, Callie Morgan decides to move to Aspen Ridge, Colorado, to fix up her late grandmother’s gift shop. But the shop is in bad shape and Callie runs out of money faster than expected. Old childhood friend and single dad Wyatt Stone comes to the rescue, offering her a job at his family’s ranch, Stone River Ranch. While their friendship is rekindled, will Callie ever risk loving again…even as Wyatt’s little girl is already stealing her heart? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main — Training service dogs is Autumn McCaw’s passion. She won’t let anything jeopardize her business’s chance of success, including her former love Wyatt Nelson. But with a looming deadline to prove herself capable, she has no choice but to hire the one man who hurt her years ago. Relying on the single dad is tough—especially since he has trust issues of his own. But can Autumn and Wyatt overcome their past to save her business…and open their hearts to love? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Hidden Secrets Between Them by Mindy Obenhaus — In Hope Crossing, Texas, nurse practitioner Kirsten Reynolds has found her dream job. The only problem is that the tiny town also has Deputy Brady James…the father of her four-year-old sons. And he doesn’t know the boys are his. But as he steps into this new role he never planned for, Brady gets a hopeful glimpse into a life with children. Will he let the fear of the unknown keep him from a future he never imagined…or will an adorable pair of twins—and their mother—change his mind? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Historical:
Unfit to Serve by Sandra Bretting — When the United States military adopts a newfangled test from France called the “intelligence quotient test” during the first world war, no one expects the turmoil that follows. Thousands of immigrants fail it and are forced to return to homelands devastated by war, disease, and famine. For Josephine Pembrooke, the shy schoolmarm at Camp Travis in Texas, the problem quickly becomes apparent. How can soldiers pass a test they can’t even read? So, Jo labors in secret to create a better test. Knowing all along it can’t save the one soldier she’d hoped to help. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing)
The Farmer and Mrs. Lombardi by Maryann Diorio — When a middle-aged mother of four delivers a child with Down syndrome, she faces the destruction of her marriage, her family, and her dream. (Historical, Independently Published)
Rise of the Outlander by Stephanie Guerrero — As hard as Magnus Stewart MacDonald works to be worthy, someone blocks his every move. Already the clan runt and disappointment to his family, his loss in the Highland Games pushes him to the brink of despair. In a twist of good fortune, Magnus rescues an Earl’s daughter giving him a path to compete for glory and the lady’s hand. Even an Earl can’t change the Stewart blood running through his veins. When his bloodline pits Magnus against the newly crowned King James Stewart, he’s forced to decide between safety or fighting for his birthright and his lady. Will Magnus choose the refuge of the Glen or emerge to push back against a vengeful King after his Stewart blood? Surviving isn’t good enough anymore. It’s time to go beyond every obstacle and risk everything in a battle for the ages… (Historical from Winged Publications)
New Creations by Sarah Hanks — Floyd Douglas is a blundering barber who faces retirement wondering if the past sixty years of his life have been a waste. When he’s presented with the opportunity to go on a mission trip, it seems like the answer to his prayers and a way to finally make his life count for something. Now with a series of obstacles standing in the way of his newfound dream, he must decide whether to push through or find contentment in being the faithful family man he’s always been. Emira has always looked up to her grandpa, especially since her parents’ marriage fractured and left her foundations shaken. Now, she scrambles to assure the man who taught her how to love what a deeply meaningful life he’s lived. (Historical from SonFlower Books)
Historical Romance:
Redeeming the Rake by Lorri Dudley — A rogue spy is bent on destroying everything a vicar’s daughter values, stealing her heart in the process. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
Convincing Lou by Jodie Wolfe — How hard can it be to round up one delinquent groom? Ellie Lou Williams will do just about anything to save her ranch, even going undercover as a man to round up a fella who is late to his own wedding. The reward will more than cover the money she owes the bank and solve all her problems. Caleb Martin agrees to one final job as a deputy U.S. Marshal before he starts his new life away from the trail and tracking criminals. What he isn’ t counting on is a mysterious bounty hunter who’ s determined to undermine his every step. Will one reach their goal first? Or will they learn to lean on God and work together? (Historical Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])
Home at Last by Penny Frost McGinnis — Lucy Grayson grew up on Abbott Island. At fifteen she worked at the General Store then bought the business at age twenty-four. Now nearing thirty, she finds herself at a crossroads. Tired of the grind at work and missing her free time, she considers selling the store, but what then? Owen Miller moved to the island after his short-lived professional baseball career ended. Now he wants to embrace his uncle’s farm and create a landscaping business. Bitter after his ex-girlfriend ditched him for someone with more money, he buries himself in his work. When mysterious holes are discovered on Abbott Island, Lucy wants answers. She also longs for a special someone in her life. Owen helps Lucy solve the mystery. As they dig into the island history and gather clues, will they find more than hidden treasure? Perhaps they’ll discover love? (Romance Mystery from Mt Zion Ridge Press)
Witness Escape by Sami A. Abrams — When witness Tabitha Wilson’s new identity is uncovered and she’s almost kidnapped, she finds herself on the run from a murderous drug lord. But her DEA contact has gone missing, forcing Tabitha to rely on Detective Doug Olsen—a man with his own secrets. It’s a race against time for Doug and Tabitha to uncover buried evidence before the cartel makes them disappear forever. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Fireline by Kate Angelo — As the niece of a legendary smokejumper, Nova Burns is tough as nails. When their crew chief Tucker Newman breaks his leg, Nova longs for the opportunity to helm the team, ready to take risks and prove herself. But there’s one risk she refuses to take-falling in love. Undercover Homeland agent Booth Wilder is seeking redemption. Scarred by a past explosion that took the life of his partner, Booth is hunting a rogue CIA faction known as the Brotherhood. Now, he’s determined to uncover their secrets and find a hidden nuclear weapon that could turn the world to ash. Only problem…summer sparks have ignited between Booth and Nova. Then the wildfire threatens the home of the Jude County Firefighting team, and Nova doesn’t care what secrets Booth might be hiding-she needs everyone to save the town. But when the Brotherhood discovers Booth and his goals, the fight becomes personal. Now, Booth must choose between accomplishing his mission and saving the woman he’s come to love. (Romantic Suspense from Sunrise Publishing)
Sheltering You by Robin Patchen — In the sleepy town of Shadow Cove, Maine, a woman’s desperate flight becomes a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse. Join the Wright Heroes of Maine for an edge-of-your-seat international romantic suspense that takes you on the run with a heroine in hiding, a secret baby, and unrequited love. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published [ACFW QIP])
Forged in Fire by A L Evans — When Light and Dark collide something explosive is destined to happen. Born into a world of heartache, Elizabeth cannot fathom a life beyond the rejection that she has always known. Then, one day a chance encounter in the ER begins the unraveling of threads. A humble man ignites a fire long held dormant. Little do they know that this is only the beginning. The supernatural world has been watching her. Everything Elizabeth has ever known suddenly shifts, and she finds herself immersed in a fated supernatural prophecy. The armies of hell have been sent to destroy her. How can she survive if she doesn’t know who she was created to be? It will all come down to sacrifice–life & death. In the end someone will lose. Mystery, Betrayal, Angels, Demons, and a dash of Humor with a hint of Romance. (Speculative Fiction from A L Evans)
Birds of Paradisum by Stan Lewis — Birds of Paradisum is an allegorical tale of one man’s struggle to find peace and freedom while being pulled in two directions by spiritual forces that are at war with each other. (Young Adult Action/Adventure from Morgan James)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Rose by Another Name by Lee Carver — A Depression-era newspaper typesetter secretly creates the character she would like to be and dares to hope for the life she may have missed. (Contemporary)
Closer Than Brothers by Mary Connealy — Prequel to Trouble in Texas Series and Kincaid Brides Series. (Western)
Broken Trust by Jane Daly — Two women face unexpected challenges with the ones they trust the most, and must also learn to trust themselves and each other in order to find happiness and love amidst chaos. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction)
The Pastor’s Perfect Wife by Jane Daly — Former Mean Girl Mariah and Pastor Ethan Walsh shouldn’t have fallen in love. But they did. Together, they must weather the storms of their pasts and find strength in each other to overcome the challenges before them. (Contemporary Romance)
Rumors are Flying by Jeanette Hanscome — Plans to turn and historic Victorian home turning into a museum and upended when Janet and Debbie delve into WWII mysteries surrounding the Townsend family, revealing secrets that revive a Dennison landmark. (Cozy Mystery)
Molly by Shanna Hatfield — Their romance began while wearing gas masks and uniforms. Will their love survive returning to civilian life? Inspired by the Hello Girls, America’s first women soldiers who helped win World War I. (Historical Romance)
Matters of the Heart by Kelly S Irvin — He’s the community’s jokester auctioneer. She’s the serious caregiver for her siblings who also works at the local plant nursery. What future could they have together? (Amish Romance)
Stitched on My Heart: Delphina’s Story by Heidi Gray McGill — When a chance at love and a new life presents itself, will Delphina have the courage to seize it? (Historical Romance)
The Wise Guy and the Star by Shannon McNear — Can a chance encounter be the connection they have always needed? (Historical Romance)
Healer by Ava Murbarger — Old rivalries rise to the surface. Each of the planets has its own story to tell. Will the Phoenix remain silent? (Speculative Fiction)
Covering Grace by Davalynn Spencer — When her trick-riding ways put her in danger while filming a local flicker, he risks more than his time intervening. He risks his heart. (Western Romance)
July 23, 2024
Review: Unshakable Moxie Presented by Our Daily Bread Ministries + #giveaway
Become a Woman of Unshakable Faith
What is a woman of moxie? She’s a dynamic, resolute woman of resilient faithfulness, unshakable confidence, and trust. Lina AbuJamra, who shares her heart in this Bible study, is a woman of moxie. Draw inspiration from her life experiences and teaching as you build your own faith. With this study, you will
This convenient, multimedia Bible study helps women center their lives around Jesus despite brokenness, setbacks, and opposition. Turn to God’s Word and learn how influential women have persevered. Perfect for generating discussion in small groups.
The Unshakable Moxie: Growing a Resilient Faith, A 6-Session Women’s Bible
Study with Video Access is a perfect pairing with the video series to help you develop
and strengthen your own life of resilient faith.
Julie’s Review:
Unshakeable Moxie is an episodic series hosted by Toni Collier (Broken Crayons Still Color) and Moriah Smallbone (The Chosen). The first session introduces the two before they embark on a trip across the country to spend time with other women who display Unshakable Moxie.
The featured guests are: Lina AbuJamra, Ruth Chou Simons, Katie Lewis, Dr. Bernice
King, and Joni Eareckson Tada.
I’m used to straight-up Bible teaching so at first I was taken aback by the time Toni and Moriah took to get to know each other. It was a meet-up followed by Moriah’s thirtieth celebration. That’s when I noticed something, Unshakable Moxie was laying an important foundation. The more we got to know the hosts, the more they shared with authenticity and transparency. By the time they traveled together to meet Ruth Chou Simmons, Toni and Moriah revealed intimate details about their faith, setting up Ruth’s segment beautifully. This is what I found for the docuseries.
Together these episodes show what Unshakable Moxie looks like and how we can apply it to our lives. Add the Bible study and you have all the tools to pursue Unshakable Moxie with God leading the way. The study was easy to understand yet challenging to apply. Growth always is, right? I think the study and video series is perfect for a small group.
Watch the full series now!
o Website: https://go.odb.org/unshakable-moxie-watch-now24
o Product order link: https://go.odb.org/unshakable-moxie-order-now24
There’s also a giveaway.
Prize: Unshakable Moxie Study Pack & $20 Amazon Gift CardStudy Pack includes:(1) Unshakable Moxie Bible Study w/QR code access to the video series.(1) Unshakable Moxie Prayer Journal(1) Unshakable Moxie Scripture & Encouragement Cards PackTerritory: Limited to US winners only.How to Enter: To enter for the chance to win the Unshakable Moxie Study Pack & $20 Amazon Gift Card, participants must do the following:Follow Our Daily Bread Ministries and God Hears Her on Facebook or Instagram.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourdailybread Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GodHearsHer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourdailybread/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godhearsher/ Repost/Share the giveaway with the hashtag “unshakablemoxie”. For a bonus entry, subscribe for God Hears Her emails. For a bonus entry, tag a female friend that lives life with “unshakable moxie”.Let me know in the comments you have completed the above.
Many thanks to Our Daily Bread Ministries for providing a sample of the product for
this review. Opinions are 100% my own and are not influenced my monetary compensation.
July 22, 2024
The Root of the Matter: The American Puritans Book One by Lynne Basham Tagawa
By Lynne Basham Tagawa
There are a lot of chocolate mentions in this new release. It’s historical, it’s time travel, and it’s even dystopian. And it’s got chocolate in it. What’s not to love?
The Root of the Matter: The American Puritans Book One got its birth when I read a snippet of John Winthrop’s very touching diary.
His wife Thomasine was dying. I was moved with the pathos of the telling. This was a “Puritan?”
I forgot about John Winthrop for years, until I began to write historical fiction. Winthrop came to mind again and again.
What were these people really like?
When it came time to write about them, I hesitated. I couldn’t write “straight” fiction. It was too hard. So I climbed inside the skin of someone I could understand, and let her have an adventure.
She’s terrified.
Time travel. The North Atlantic in winter. Which is worse?
Geneva Fielding is a researcher in the Archives of the Applied History department, prepping time travelers for their destinations. She loves the smell of old paper and chocolate croissants.
One day, a Traveler fails an important test and cannot go. Instead of canceling the Trip, the dean appoints Geneva and her friend Peter Donatelli, a physicist, to take his place. They have three days to prepare to Travel to 1630s New England.
Geneva’s always wanted to know more about John Winthrop. Maybe she can even get a dissertation topic from the Trip. But the truth is, she’s scared stiff. No one knows her private struggles. And she’s not about to tell.
Geneva and Peter are dumped into an early, struggling Massachusetts, the Puritan inhabitants having escaped the persecution of the Crown only to face a howling wilderness. Roger Williams’s arrival sends shockwaves through the frail colony.
Can the Bay Colony afford to allow a critic of the king to dwell among them?
And what will Geneva do when she discovers Peter’s secret?
From the chocolate croissants to the time travel, it was all fun to write. And Peter and Geneva have a relationship that gets closer over time.
But no spoilers!
ScreenshotLynne Tagawa has four children and six grandchildren. She lives with her husband in South Texas and occasionally indulges in chocolate.
She’s written an eighteenth-century trilogy that does not include time travel. The Shenandoah Road and A Fallen Sparrow are Selah Award finalists.
Her website:
Buy link:
X @LynneTagawa
FB Lynne-Basham-Tagawa
BookBub: @LynneBashamTagawa
July 21, 2024
About Those Online Searches
Michael Garrett is no stranger to this blog, and I’m glad. He was Stephen King’s first editor/publisher and holds decades of experience in the field. He recently reached out because he has an article out that is good information for all of us.
What?
It’s about online searches.
As in, don’t trust them.
Michael gives some great information, and I want to recommend the article to you. To read, please click here. Thanks, Michael!
July 16, 2024
Book Review: The Indispensable Kid: Absolutely necessary, essential; incapable of being disregarded
From Amazon:
No one ever claims that raising children will be easy. Women go through some of the most challenging pain in childbirth. Moments after birth, the mother changes all focus to the life on her chest. People often say that women are so focused on their babies after childbirth that they are rarely overcome with pain when the afterbirth is born. The pain is no longer the focus. Why? I suspect that they’ve figured out the same thing I did. The pain was worth it. The reward outweighed the cost. The focus shifts to the reward, the gift of life, and the promise of what will come.
With each child, we had so much excitement. It seemed that nothing could go wrong, and hope for the future was neverending. We were excited about what God had planned for each little one. The years ahead were only thought of with hope and excitement. The possibilities of problems ahead were not on anyone’s mind—not then, not at that moment. Everything was just right, just as it should be.
Just a few short years after our son Noah was born we found ourselves asking questions, even while we were still in denial. Then, the diagnoses came. Life as we thought it would be, was not, and we were embarking on a new journey. Our son, Noah was given a laundry list of diagnoses. Special needs, disabilities, and differently-abled were terms that would become familiar to us. Although we accepted those diagnoses, we knew that God was the one who ultimately defined Noah. And God says, Noah is indispensable!
Join us on our journey with Noah, disabilities, and the purpose that God has set out before us. We’re not alone in this journey and neither are you.
Julie’s Review:
Let me be upfront: Our family has the privilege to greet Noah in church halls, talk pizza at events, and visit his home thanks to his and his family’s hospitality. I’ve known Tracie Corll for over 15 years and she is a close, dear friend, a prayer partner, and someone I contact often for guidance.
Why?
Because of this book. If you know anyone with a disability, The Indispensable Kid is a story to educate and encourage. For years I’ve asked Tracie to help me navigate as our daughter had chronic health issues followed by a rare diagnosis that set her apart in ways she did not want to be defined. Tracie understood the appointments, therapies, advocacy and so much more that our family walked through, especially in our daughter’s earlier years. Our stories are not the same, but Tracie has had, as I have, to push doctors for more, and ask for things either from the medical or educational system that were near impossible.
Tracie’s story, Noah’s life, is one we can all learn from. If you are not part of the statistics Tracie lists who are impacted by a disability, my sense is you can benefit from The Indispensable Kid to raise your awareness.
What I love is it is so much more than a personal journey. It is loaded with information, statistics, promises from God’s Word, and conversation that makes you feel you are sitting down with a cherished friend.
I highly recommend The Indispensable Kid. Not because I know Noah, but because Tracie’s story helped me capture the vision. All kids, all ages, are indispensable. They are valuable and loved deeply by our Heavenly Father. You don’t want to miss this book full of love, mountains, valleys, hope, and God’s promises.
July 9, 2024
Celebrate Lit: Christmas in July
Hello Readers!
I don’t know about you but in this heat, I am longing for Christmas! With that in mind, Celebrate Lit has partnered with several partners for a special Christmas in July Giveaway. This giveaway is a box filled with several fun surprises along with a $50 Amazon Gift card. You can see more about the box in the video below
Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/…/2024-christmas-in-july…
