Julie Arduini's Blog, page 6

Tuesday: Reader Celebration

I can’t believe my first release, Entrusted, published ten years ago. My first small-town romance with a fiesty heroine named Jenna and a grieving grump named Ben honestly remains a favorite.

Since then I’ve authored ten books. Given I’m a wife, mom, and served in youth and now women’s ministry, it’s a balance I haven’t figured out how to write more. Still, I want to celebrate those ten years!

Join me Tuesday on the Julie Arduini Facebook Reader Group page from 7-10 PM EST. Eleven other authors will join me from various genres. We will have games, complimentary eBooks, and prizes.

Oh, my grand prize?

One US winner will receive paperback copies of all TEN BOOKS.

It’s going to be a great night. Can’t be there the entire time? Join when you can, and then return within the next day or two. The posts will stay, but giveaways will have a deadline. You don’t want to miss out!

Do me a favor and share this with reader friends.

Thank YOU for taking this journey with me.

Finally Forever with Karin Beery

Behind the Scenes with Finally Forever by Karin Beery

Aunt Linda moved in with my husband and me in 2012. In her mid-sixties, she had lived in a care home for most of her adult life. As a special-needs woman, she moved into the home after her dad died and her mom’s Alzheimer’s made it impossible to care for Linda. The small, family-style care home treated Linda like family, but after several decades there, we wanted to give her a taste of life on the outside.

Living with Aunt Linda was eye opening in so many ways. Not only is she capable of so much more than people realize—her breakfasts and chef’s salads are amazing!—but she has a heart to serve. She doesn’t want people taking care of her unless she can also take care of others.

On top of that, she loves babies and animals. She’s passionate about Michigan/Detroit sports. And she’s a fan of reality game shows, specifically Survivor and Dancing with the Stars (DWTS).

I don’t have the patience for Survivor, but I decided to watch DWTS with her, at least for the first episode. That one episode turned into several seasons of the dance competition, which was more than a dance competition for us. It became a weekly ritual. We arranged our schedules around the show, picked out snacks, then cheered for our favorite teams.

When it was time to start a new novel, I wanted to share it with Linda in some way. That inspired so many real-life ties in Finally Forever: a DWTS-style fundraiser (based on SwingShift and the Stars Dance-Off for Charity in Traverse City, Michigan), a nonprofit that benefits special-needs adults (based on Brickways in Traverse City), and several special-needs characters (all inspired by either Aunt Linda or the other women she once lived with).

In 2014, Aunt Linda moved out to live with her sister for a while, but in 2024, after the release of the Linda-inspired novel Finally Forever, she moved back in with me, and we’re once again watching DWTS together. I’ll never be able to watch that show or read Finally Forever without thinking about Aunt Linda, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Back Cover:

Winning the dance competition could land Caroline her dream job but at the cost of her heart.

Former competitive dancer Caroline Novak dreams of leaving the corporate world to work with special needs women at the Pathways non-profit, but the organization can’t afford a full-time director. All-American defensive end Ben Allen was on his way to the NFL when a knee injury sent him home and into the same office as Caroline, his best friend’s older sister. When Pathways participates in a Dancing with the Stars-inspired fundraiser, Caroline quickly volunteers, and Ben joins her as the local “star.”
 
It doesn’t take long for Ben to realize it’s more than a dance competition, and Caroline is more than his best friend’s sister, but after two failed engagements, she’s hesitant to trust her heart with another man. When the NFL calls Ben, it looks like his dream might finally come true—but it could cost them the championship and Caroline her heart.

Author of hopeful fiction with a healthy dose of romance, Karin Beery lives in northern Michigan with her husband and pets. They drink too much (decaf) coffee, put up their Christmas tree the first weekend in November, and do their best to live every day for the Lord.

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/authorkarinbeery/
https://www.instagram.com/karinbeery/
https://twitter.com/karinbeery

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2666258-karin
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/karin-beery

Celebrate Lit Bring on the Fall Giveaway

Fall is in full swing and so is this amazing promotion. Celebrate Lit is having a Bring on the Fall giveaway. Grand prize is 30+ books and a $50 Amazon card. Anchored Hearts is my participating book, so I’m very excited.

It’s easy to enter. You click HERE.

World Mental Health Day: You’re Worth It

Yesterday was World Mental Health Day and I came across this at the bottom of my LinkedIn page. I know the Mess had … and my guess is it means I have messages.

But me and 2024? I feel like it’s been a green light for the hot mess express.

I’ve shared over the years that I’m unashamed to share that I have a hormonal imbalance. Where some women have PCOS, at the time my surgeon said I said the medical books because my “parts” were 5x the size of normal. I was in chronic pain, infertile, and the mood swings sent me to the bedroom to hide.

Finally, in my mid-thirties I realized depressed and moody wasn’t how I wanted to live. My hormones were in a free-for-all all between pregnancies, miscarriage, and early menopause because of stress. When I went to the doctor I begged for a hysterectomy. I got that the next year, but before we pulled the cord on it, he also recommended an antidepressant.

It saved my life.

When things were bad, I would envision walking to a medicine cabinet to do the worst. One time I did walk over. I packed a suitcase. But I stayed and suffered, not because of anything or anyone around me but because of hormones.

The antidepressant journey went very smoothly for me. I think the first medicine he tried worked, and it wasn’t long before we landed on the right dose.

I got my life back.

And then came Spring 2024.

I received a letter from insurance saying they would not cover that medicine. Out of pocket was thousands of dollars. They left me with a list of alternatives.

The doctor who originally prescribed said his office no longer does authorizations or works on rejections. I got the message that I’d need to visit a different doctor to get this figured out.

My primary listened to me and prescribed something different. He suggested a follow-up four months later.

It didn’t take long to discover that medicine was NOT for me. I was as anxious as when I didn’t take anything all those years ago. My mind raced at a speed that felt like an out-of-control Tilt-A-Whirl. I was weepy, starving, up a lot at night, and at times not just missing my parents, but wanting to join them. They are deceased.

I called the primary and he said it takes time.

I found a new doctor.

This week I was finally able to get in and he couldn’t believe I was prescribed what I was because it was nothing close to the original med that had worked so well. He felt I should go with what insurance was offering, and there were meds there that mirrored what I had been on. He prescribed that.

This week I’m coming off the one and starting on the other. It’s a ride to be sure, a little weepy and overwhelmed. Yet, I see hope. I’m not starving. I’m sleeping. My thoughts are back to normal speed.

When I was a kid there was a commercial for something and the tag line was “You’re worth it.” Here’s the deal: when it comes to pursuing healthy and legal means to be your best self, you are worth it. The last thing I wanted to do was find another doctor. I hate the phone and I’ve been exhausted all year.

There were few I felt I could go to and say hey, “I’m really struggling here.”But I had a very small tribe who knew and kept me in prayer Getting out of bed wasn’t too hard because I love my weird coffee I make. But many days this year all that kept me going was knowing I could be back in bed away from the noise, the stress, the overwhelm.

I’m writing this because I know I’m not alone even when my hormones make me feel that way sometimes. I pray you read this and realize you’re worth finding a solution. I am not advocating anything illegal so don’t think I’m giving you permission for that. Nor am I a fan of Big Pharma, quite the opposite, actually.. But I reached a point I needed something to fill the gap that was missing, and for me, the anti depressant was the answer.

This year as I struggled with no longer having the exact same one available, I read a couple of books that were lifesavers for me.

Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allen

Letting God Be Enough by Erica Wiiggenhorn.

I also love the Bible. The Psalms contain so much relatable content. Jeremiah? I get him. He was cruising right along and then BAM! Depression. His story is pretty cool.

So is yours. If you have any kind of mental health issue, don’t hide. Don’t isolate. Find support and a good doctor who will listen to you.

Cathy’s Christmas Confession by Patti Shene Gonzales

Character Interview with Cathy Fischer

Question: HI Cathy. I’d like to ask you some questions for readers if you can spare a few
minutes.

Cathy: Sure, I’d be glad to give you some of my time. What would you like to know?

Question: First, if you don’t mind, tell us who you are.

Cathy: My name is Cathy Fischer. I’m a widower and the church secretary for the Christmas Ridge Community Church. I guess the most important thing, though, is that I’m the main character in Patti’s book, Cathy’s Christmas Confession.

Question: What did you learn about yourself when Patti wrote you into her story?

Cathy: I knew I always wanted to help people when they needed it, but I didn’t realize how many hurting people are right under my nose, so to speak. I was quite surprised to learn how many people may know about Jesus without knowing Him!

Question: What do you wish you could change about yourself?

Cathy: Oh goodness, sometimes I wish I wasn’t such a scatterbrain! If I would concentrate on what I’m supposed to be doing instead of what I wish I had done or what I didn’t do, I’d be much better off. If I hadn’t been thinking about that dumb cup of coffee I left sitting in the snow the morning I was clearing the truck, I probably wouldn’t have collided with that STOP sign.

Question: Mishaps like that can be annoying, but they sometimes lead to blessings we never anticipated. Do you think perhaps God ordained that little accident that led to you connecting with David Martin?

Cathy: Absolutely! God does work in mysterious ways, and we never know what plans He has in the works for our lives. That’s what makes Him such an extraordinary and amazing God!

Question: You reached out to David when you saw him grieving the recent death of his wife in view of the upcoming Christmas season. Did you anticipate that a romance would develop?

Cathy: (chuckles). No, I sure didn’t! I could tell all the joy had gone out of David’s life, and my intention was to help him find purpose that would bring back the joy in Christmas. You’ll have to read my story in Cathy’s Christmas Confession to learn more about my marriage, which was somewhat unusual. Still, I truly believed God had given me a certain number of years with my
husband where I felt loved and cherished. I was content with that. I wasn’t really looking for more romance in my life after his passing.

Question: You had quite a reputation for providing cookies at Community Center functions, church fellowship, and as surprise pick me up gifts for those who needed a little cheer in their lives. Care to share your favorite recipe?

Cathy: I’m so sorry, but those recipes are a closely guarded family secret.

Question: Is there perhaps a secret to your baking prowess hidden between the pages of Cathy’s Christmas Confession?

Cathy: (turns on a bright smile) Perhaps.

Question: Any final thought you’d like to share with readers?

Cathy: Oh yes! May you always find Christmas joy!

https://www.amazon.com/Cathys-Christm...

BIO:
Patti Shene Gonzales enjoyed a thirty-year career as a psychiatric nurse and has always harbored a desire to write. She has three novels in progress spanning the contemporary and historical western genre. She hosts Step Into the Light, a bi-monthly interview style podcast, where guests share their journey out of darkness or ways they lead others out of darkness. She hosts published and unpublished writers on her two blogs, Patti’s Porch and The Over 50 Writer. Patti enjoys reading, writing, critiquing, watching old TV westerns, and spending time with family and friends.

She is the author of Cathy’s Christmas Confession: A Christmas Ridge Romance Book 3, the third book in a contemporary Christmas novella multi-author series. (Each story can stand alone). The book is available on Amazon in Kindle and print format and on Kindle Unlimited.

Patti was born in New York but has made her home in Southeastern Colorado for the past fifty years. She is one of the original founders of the Colorado Springs chapter of ACFW.

LINKS:
Website: www.pattishene.com (NEWSLETTER SIGN UP AT TOP OF
PAGE)
Facebook Step Into the Light: https://www.facebook.com/pattishene
Facebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/gunsmokefan/
Twitter: @pattishene
Linkedin: @Patti Shene
Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/stores/Patti-Shene-
Gonzales/author/B0BLHXMC71
BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/patti-shene-gonzales

Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett

Love and Chocolate: The Story Behind the Story

By Linda Shenton Matchett

During my high school years we lived in Montgomery County, Maryland which is about a two-hour drive to Hershey, Pennsylvania. Our church youth group visited the town’s amusement park, Hershey Park, on numerous occasions, and I still remember the smell of chocolate that clung to the air.

A couple of years ago while I was planning my upcoming writing projects, I knew I wanted to write a series of books about siblings but couldn’t decide where or went to set the stories. Lots of research later, I discovered the 1898 Columbian Exposition here in the United States and the various inventions associated with that event. Further study led me to Milton Hershey who attended that World’s Fair and was so enamored with the concept of chocolate production for the masses that he sold his caramel company to enter the chocolate business – a risky proposition at that time.

As I read more about Milton and his wife Catherine “Kitty” Sweeney-Hershey, I knew I had the beginnings of a story. At the time they met during one of his business trips in 1897, he was a confirmed 41-year-old bachelor and Kitty fourteen years younger. But he was struck by her beauty, charm, and maturity, and he visited the shop where she worked on a regular basis. They married in 1898.

Several places were considered for the chocolate factory, but Milton settled on a location thirty miles from where he was born in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania about two hours from Harrisburg. The area was somewhat rural, and he created a company town to attract workers. The homes he built for his workers were of good quality and employees could choose to rent or purchase their house. Schools, medical facilities and doctors, a library, movie theater, playground (which would eventually become Hershey Park), and other necessary services were constructed and provided for the employees. By all reports, Milton paid his employees very well. It’s no wonder when the vote was taken to name the town, residents chose “Hershey” by a landslide.

Philanthropy was a Milton Hershey watchword. He came from nothing and felt it was his responsibility to give back to the community so others might have a chance. He and his wife were unable to have children, and after much discussion, they opened the Hershey Industrial School in 1909.

The owner of Beck’s Chocolates in my latest release Love and Chocolate is inspired by Milton Hershey, and I enjoyed creating my own “company town,” Cocoaville in which to set the story. Taking place in 1914 prior to the beginning of World War I, the story explores the mixed feelings about German-Americans that were prevalent at the time as well as themes of second chances and forgiveness.

I’m not a big candy eater, but when I do indulge dark chocolate is my preference. What about you? Do you have a favorite candy?

About Love and Chocolate

She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love?

Ilsa Krause and her siblings are stunned to discover their father left massive debt behind upon his death. To help pay off their creditors and save the farm, she takes a job at Beck’s Chocolates, the company her father despised and refused to supply with milk. Then she discovers her boss is Ernst Webber, her high school love who unceremoniously dumped her via letter from college. Could life get any more difficult?

A freshly-minted university diploma in his hand, Ernst Webber lands his dream job at Beck’s Chocolates. His plans to work his way up the ladder don’t include romantic entanglements, then Ilsa Krause walks back into his life resurrecting feelings he thought long dead. However, her animosity makes it clear she has no interest in giving him a second chance. Can he get her to change her mind? Does he want to?

Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/u/mdQerZ

Linda Shenton Matchett writes happily-ever-after historical Christian fiction about second chances and women who overcome life’s challenges to be better versions of themselves. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII and a former trustee for her local public library. She now lives in central New Hampshire where she explores the history of this great state and immerses herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

Social Media Links:

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

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

FB Readers’ Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lindashentonmatchettsreadersgroup

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

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@lindamatchett

Newsletter Signup: https://BookHip.com/BKQNLMN

ACFW Fiction Finder October 2024 New Releases

October 2024 New Releases

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

General Contemporary:

I’ll Be Home by Darlene L. Turner, by Sara Davison, Helena Smrcek, Melanie Stevenson — With chaos and confusion all around them, can they find their way home this Christmas? The people in these four stories are all searching for something—an escaped convict, a job promotion from a love interest, connection to a lost parent, answers across time. Christmas should be a time of wonder and celebration, but the obstacles each faces seem insurmountable. Perhaps they will find what they are seeking during this season of miracles and hope. Or maybe, with God’s help, they will discover that the longing of their hearts takes them to places—and people—they didn’t even know they’d been searching for. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Chokecherry Valley Collection by Jean Rezab — One accident. Two devastated families. Paul Richmond’s life changed in an instant when his wife and seven-year-old daughter die in a car accident. He struggles to move forward with this huge change. As his two-year sobriety anniversary approaches, he knows he’s on the edge of a relapse. He takes a sabbatical from his work as a doctor and works on his in-law’s farm to get perspective and try to come to terms with his new life. What if Paul could have the one thing he desires most? To see and speak to his daughter again. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

A Match Made at Christmas by Amy R. Anguish, Sarah Anne Crouch, Lori DeJong, Heather Greer — A mischievous little boy, an interfering friend, a committee of Christmas planners, and a quartet of teenage elves play matchmakers in this fun collection of Christmas romances. (Contemporary Romance, Scrivenings Press)

The Warrior’s B&B by Jennie Atkins — Is it possible for a man to fall in love with two different women and never suspect they are the same person? (Contemporary Romance from Amazon)

The Dream of a Cowboy by Elsie Davis — Cowboys who deserve a second chance at love and happiness and the women strong enough to show them the way…Texas style! (Contemporary Romance from Sweet Romance Publishing)

One Starry Christmas by Mary A. Felkins — A pastor with a past faces his greatest challenge. Redemption. (Contemporary Romance from Gardenia Press)

Wild at Heart by Alyssa Schwarz — She craves adventure. He’s had enough adventure for a lifetime. But when these two friends find themselves searching the skies for an endangered hawk, they’ll find there’s more at stake than the future of Wild Rose Ridge. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Historical:

Brave by Mesu Andrews — In the tumultuous world of ancient Israel, Ahinoam–a fierce and unconventional Kenite woman–flees her family farm with her dagger-wielding father to join the ragtag band of misfits led by the shepherd-turned-warrior David ben Jesse. As King Saul’s treasonous accusations echo through the land, Ahinoam’s conviction that David’s anointing makes him Yahweh’s chosen king propels her on a perilous journey to Moab, only to encounter hardship and betrayal. (Historical from Bethany House Publishing)

All We Thought We Knew by Michelle Shocklee — In the midst of pain and loss two women must come face-to-face with their own assumptions about what they thought they knew about themselves and others. What they discover will lead to a far greater appreciation of their own legacies and the love of those dearest to them. (Historical from Tyndale House)

Historical Romance:

One Special Christmas by Amanda Cabot — It will take a miracle to salvage her dreams, but Christmas is the season of miracles, isn’t it? (Historical Romance from ByDand Publishing)

A Christmas at Hotel del Coronado by Kathleen Denly — Her entire life, Eleanore Wainright has been molded to fit the ideal society wife in the glittering world of New York’s elite. Her father’s aspirations for her are clear: marry a man of wealth and status and secure their family’s future. But when she arrives at the Hotel del Coronado with intentions to do just that, Eleanore’s carefully laid plans are thrown into disarray when she comes face to face with Thomas Harding, the man who shattered her heart and disappeared without a trace. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Beyond Shattered Dreams by Cynthia Roemer — After months in a Confederate prison camp, Private Will Everett boards the Sultana eager to return home and leave behind the horrors of war. One day into the voyage, the overcrowded steamboat explodes, rendering Will injured and unable to recall his identity. With only a pocket watch and the name Will E. etched inside to guide him, Will begins a relentless quest to find his forgotten past. (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Healing Hearts by Sherida Stewart — Two wounded hearts. His shattered by grief, hers burdened by guilt. Will these two hurting hearts be healed by love and faith? A frontier “Beauty and the Beast” tale set in New Mexico Territory. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Middle-grade Chapter books:

The Beastie of Brambly Bald by Amanda Cleary Eastep — Jack Finch’s plan to gobble up tons of turkey over Thanksgiving Break and work on the Tree Street Kids’ fort has been foiled. Instead, the Finches are traveling to the mountains of North Carolina to visit grandparents Jack barely knows. Thank goodness his best friends Ellison and Roger are coming with him to the cabin on Brambly Bald mountain. But something is lurking in the forest, and soon Jack uncovers a secret bigger than Bigfoot. When the kids come face to face with a real threat, will Jack find a way to protect his friends? Jack braves danger, finds new branches on his family tree, and discovers what it means to be rooted in God’s great family. (Middle-grade/Chapter Books from Moody Publishers)

Mystery/Suspense/Thriller:

Time to Pay by Susan Page Davis — A near miss for Tony throws the squad into high gear. Captain Harvey Larson is summoned by the mayor to help solve a crime she doesn’t want publicized. Was the caller threatening her or her husband? Meanwhile, the detectives in the Priority Unit are chasing down other criminals. (Mystery [Police Procedural] from Tea Tin Press)

70 North by Kimberley Woodhouse — In this thrilling finale, mysteries deepen, faith is tested, and the pulse of cyber threats intensifies against the striking backdrop of Deadhorse, Alaska. (Contemporary Suspense from Kregel Publications)

Romantic Suspense:

Terminal Danger by Jerusha Agen — When a busload of schoolchildren disappears, Phoenix Gray knows the kidnapper is the unidentified serial killer she’s spent her life trying to catch. This time, she’ll find the killer and bring him to justice no matter what it takes. She and her Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency join the search for the hostages, but they aren’t the only ones who want the criminal captured. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

Finding Amanda by Robin Patchen — A gripping tale of trauma, justice, and the extraordinary strength of a man who’ll do anything to protect the woman he loves. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

Search and Detect by Terri Reed — When her home is destroyed by a bomb, Zoe and her little girl need protection and FBI agent Chase Rawlston takes on the job while determining if the bombing is related to the serial killer he’s tracking. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Assigned to Protect by Melanie D. Snitker — Police Officer Jenny Durant and FBI Agent Blake Patterson are assigned to protect a witness who is testifying in a high-profile case. Before she can testify, a bomb goes off at the courthouse, throwing everything into chaos. With multiple casualties and another missing defendant, it’s impossible to know for sure who the actual target was, and whether this attack is only the beginning… (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Guarding Truth by Kelly Underwood — The one thing that Former Army Ranger turned elite bodyguard Juliette Montgomery regrets is never telling fellow solider Caleb Styles her true feelings. But how could she? They were co-workers, and then the guy went and saved her life. And that turned out to be the one thing that cost them their relationship. So Juliette has moved on, trying to forget Caleb—and her feelings. Caleb hasn’t forgotten her either. But he has no idea she now lives in Savannah, Georgia…especially since his life is full as guardian of his niece, Ivy, after her parents were killed.… (Romantic Suspense from Sunrise Publishing)

Unexpected Witness by Penny Zeller — Nurse Mila Casey did not expect to witness a murder in the clinic’s parking lot. Nor did she imagine seeking protection from the at-large killer would land her on a secluded ranch owned by handsome, but standoffish, Roarke Brenneman. Mila finds herself in the center of ever-growing danger as the police are unable to locate the suspect. When the protection of the ranch is compromised and Mila’s location is discovered, can she, with Roarke’s aid, stay one step ahead of a crazed murderer who intends to silence her… (Romantic Suspense from Maplebrook Publishing)

Speculative Fiction:

The Castle Rose by Tabitha Caplinger — Bastian Roux lived and died a hundred years ago. Kind of. He certainly feels like nothing more than a ghost as he haunts the abandoned Castle Rose Theatre, his only solace found in the notes of his piano. That is until Odette arrives. (Speculative Urban Fantasy from Blue Ink Press)

Western:

Into the Sunset by Mary Connealy — To finally escape the clutches of her controlling husband and the threat of being recommitted to an asylum, Ginny Rutledge enlists the help of her friends, Maeve O’Toole and Dakota Harlan. Fleeing their own tumultuous pasts, the group embarks on a journey to prove Ginny’s sanity. However, as they confront the shadows they wish they could forget, danger looms from unexpected places. (Western from Bethany House)

 

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

Sundancer’s Joy by Elsie Davis — Where hope and healing unite… (Contemporary Romance)

A Codebreaker’s Christmas Surprise by Anne Greene — A secret kept by the US Government for 80 years finally revealed. (Historical Romance)

Fellowship of the Frazzled Moms by Stephanie Paige King — One mom’s simple act of crossing the cul-de-sac ignites a movement for an entire community of women. (General Contemporary)

In Pursuit of the Truth by Melanie D. Snitker — When the situation escalates to danger, it’s up to Nate to keep them safe. (Romantic Suspense)

The Reluctant Pioneer by Julie McDonald Zander — In 1847, with her husband and four young sons, a pregnant mother crosses the Oregon Trail, a two-thousand-mile journey to the Pacific Northwest. When tragedy strikes, she must find the strength to continue. (Western)

Fiction Finder September 2024

September 2024 New Releases

More 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)

Contemporary Romance:

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])

Middle-grade Chapter books:

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)

Romance:

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)

Romance – Amish:

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)

Romantic Suspense:

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)

Western:

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)

Young Adult:

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)

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.

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

Format: Paperback, eBook

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

Tweets by evSparrow

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

Celebratelit@celebratelit.com