Grace Filled Fiction Summer Book Bash 2020 ~ 9 Novels/9 Authors/99 cents

9 Christian Authors~9 Reads~99 Cents

THE GREEN VEIL by Naomi Musch:  Set your summer reading for a gripping family saga! In book one of the Empire in the Pines series, lumberman’s Colette Palmer has always loved timber cruiser Manason Kade, but during the summer of 1841, she leaves him behind to travel across Lake Michigan and settle with her family in the heart of the Wisconsin wilderness. Growing into womanhood, she eventually makes her vow to another. The day finally comes, however, when Manason plants roots of his own in Wisconsin Territory, and Colette’s husband will stop at nothing to ruin him. Logging enterprises collide as the territory nears statehood. In the midst of turmoil, Manason and Colette meet again. Now, she will have to choose between her first love and her commitment to her marriage vows, while her dreams, her faith, and an empire in pine hang in the balance. The Red Fury (book two) and The Black Rose (book three) continue this three-generation, historical romance series. Naomi Musch Amazon Author Page

YESTERDAY’S POISON by Carol McClain ~ What could be a greater summertime indulgence than hours on the beach? The answer: Hours lolling in the sun with an unforgettable book that immerses you in the world of forgiveness and friendship. One that will rivet your attention from the first word until the last. Heartbreak catapults Torie Sullivan into the care of paramedic Adam Benedict when she crashes her car in a drunken frenzy. In middle school she and her cronies had bullied him mercilessly. Now he’s tasked with saving her life. Each character drinks yesterday’s poison. Their friendships intertwine their lives and expose their toxic pasts. They must learn to forgive the unpardonable. Carol McClain Amazon Author Page

COURTING DANGER (A Katerina “Kat” Andruko/Dimitri Garmonin Novel, Book 1) by Nike N. Chillemi ~ The temperatures are steamy. Florida hurricane season is coming! A murderer is terrorizing young women in Pelican Beach and so is the first storm of the season. A newly installed detective, Kat feels she knows the murderer but can’t place him, and it’s tearing at her. Her first suspect is debonair profiler Dimitri Garmonin who finds her intriguing. An excellent summer read. But also check out all the other contemporary detective novels/mysteries for any season on Nike N. Chillemi’s author page. Fast paced, taut suspense, action packed, sweet romance, quirky secondary characters, wry humor. Nike N. Chillemi Amazon Author Page

LUNCH LADIES (What a Difference a Year Makes, Book 3) by Ruth O’Neil ~ “Everyone rattled off their offerings for the Fourth of July feast and the fun that would follow. Besides an enormous amount of food, there would be water balloons, water guns, yard games, pool fun, crafts, and of course fireworks. It really was the event of the summer that everyone looked forward to.” Cookouts, parades, picnics, swimming, camping. Whatever your summer activities, you’ll want to take this novel with you. These seven women will make your summer one to remember as you follow them through thick and thin. They’re best friends who stick together through storms and sunny days, sharing each sorrow and blessing. You’ll wish you were a part of their circle. Or maybe you’ll be encouraged to create a close-knit circle of friends with whom you can enjoy the highs and lows of this journey called life. Look for other books in Ruth O’Neil’s series What a Difference a Year Make. Ruth O’Neil Amazon Author Page

NATE’S HEALING (The Florida Irish Series, Book 6) by Suzanne D. Williams ~ Nate Sawyer has suffered a devastating illness when he meets his parent’s new neighbor, Georgianna Smith. Their attraction for each other sparks immediately. She’s funny and caring and a great cook. Yet a secret she carries grows larger and larger in her mind, and it could be he isn’t strong enough to accept it. Curl up by the pool or in your favorite chair and travel back to a simpler time this summer. Often lighthearted, the budding feelings of Nate and Georgianna are also frustrating and incredibly heartwarming. Take a glimpse at a cast of characters from The Florida Irish series in this short, 99 cent, historical romance novella, then check out more of this author’s book catalog. Suzanne D. Williams Amazon Author Page

SHE’S MINE by Tammy Doherty ~ This summer is going to be explosive for Caitlin Harrington and Sean Taggart. Caitlin dreams of a quiet life teaching math at her hometown middle school. Except someone is leaving ominous notes on her door. It could be her ex-boyfriend or someone else who doesn’t want her back in town. Sean Taggart thinks Caitlin is beautiful…and possibly crazy. When he finds out the truth, Sean wants to help. Can he save Caitlin before the stalker turns to murder?  If you take this book to the beach, be sure to slather on the sunscreen because you’ll be captivated and unable to stop reading until the end. As one reviewer says, “Fantastic read. Poured through this book because I couldn’t put it down! The storyline kept me guessing. There is a masterful plot twist, that I didn’t see coming – and I loved it!! Tammy Doherty Amazon Author Page

 

KNIGHT IN SHINING APRON (Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery Series, Book 2) by Carole Brown ~ Come spend your summer in Appleton, WV where everyone knows everyone and there’s always another mystery going on. Friends are loyal, and the foes are determined to win. Romance is swoony-worthy and the mystery is intriguing. Meet friends like a professor-turned-author, a knighted chef from England, a restaurant owner who can’t cook, an Italian carpenter, a brother and sister who co-own an antique/junk/collectible shop and more. Help discover who the villains are. Whether you’re at the beach, the mountains, or at home, these books will transport you to a world that will make you year to visit or live in Appleton. Don’t just settle for one book. Check all the books in this Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery series, with more coming. Carole Brown Amazon Author Page

JUSTICE FOR ELIZABETH (Detective Carhill Mystery Book 2) by Mary Vee ~ Sipping sweet iced tea on the veranda of a Manhattan mansion seems divine, unless you are Elizabeth Alexander, wife of the man on trial for embezzlement. A speedy trial, the best lawyer money can buy backs away, and circumstantial evidence feeds the gossipers and threatens the Alexander family name. Elizabeth hires Detective Carhill, PI, to find the one who set up her husband. Murder, romance, kidnapping, shopping. Sweet ingredients to a summer read you’re sure to love. Mary Vee Amazon Author Page

WITHIN GOLDEN BANDS (A Home for My Heart Book 2) by Norma Gail ~ Take a summer vacation in Scotland without leaving home! Within Golden Bands: A Home for My Heart Book Two offers a tender love story and edgy romantic suspense all rolled into one. Newly married Bonny MacDonell finds the transition from American college professor to Scottish sheep farmer’s wife more difficult than she expected. When her miracle pregnancy ends in a devastating miscarriage, she fears her husband’s reaction will hurt more than the loss of their child. But Kieran never shows up at the hospital. When found, he is beaten and unconscious. The only memory of his attacker is the words, “Get off my land.” Reeling from the threats and the loss of their child, they struggle to hold her marriage together. Will faith and love be enough? And don’t miss Book One, Land of My Dreams, a sweet, Christian romance set in Scotland and New Mexico.Norma Gail Amazon Author Page

CALEB’S DESTINY (Troubles in the West, Book 1) by Carole Brown ~ Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight, late spring 2020

Historical Western Romantic Suspense, Christian Historical Fiction

 

Q:  What is your latest release/release you chose to spotlight, and what would you like us to know about it? What take away? If its theme is pertinent to the time of year, a holiday that’s coming up, something that’s topical to life today mention that.

CB:  CALEB’S DESTINY (Troubles in the West, Book 1):  Why were three fathers murdered under suspicious circumstances while on their quest to find gold?  Three children, connected through tragedy and separated by time, are fated to reunite and re-right some powerful wrongs. If you love tough, but gentle cowboys who have difficult decisions to make and feisty, yet frilly-loving women who are not afraid to tackle scary tasks, then this novel is one you’ll enjoy. Take away: In spite of tragedy and wrong decisions, God is always there.

Q:  Please tell both fiction readers and writers what your writing journey has been like. How long have you been seriously writing? What have you learned? Did you experience anything unexpected? What has been your greatest joy and/or angst?

CB:  One thing I’ve learned is that sometimes we need a break. My most serious one was last year. As hard as I tried, as hard as I wanted to write, I’d gone through too much, too many things were pulling my focus away from writing. Though I was held up for that year, it was a good lesson to me. Take that break I needed…but never, never give up on writing.

Q:  Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight encourages excellence in Christian fiction. What are things you look for in terms of excellence in novels you read? What is the latest novel you’ve read that you could heartily recommend and why?

CB:  My favorite genre to read is mystery, suspense with romance thrown into the mix. The book that stands out to me is one that stirs me emotionally. I might: sigh/cry with happiness, hate a certain character, want to go there to live, work with/meet with the characters to work out that suspense/mystery. It’s always a book that is placed in a very special pile: the Keeper’s/to-be-read-again Pile.

Q:  How has grace functioned in your life, been important to you? Do you have a joyous, unique, or even humorous story to tell about how grace manifested in your daily life, perhaps unexpectedly?

CB:  While hurting, for some time, from a certain person’s actions, a person I loved very much, God seemed to remind me: You want them to know God, then pray for them. God had shown me grace many times. Why should I not do the same to a person who was very hard to deal with? I still doubted, but I changed my prayer, and I’ve seen some improvement and gentleness come from my simple act of showing grace.

Q:  What will you be doing next, either in writing or in life?

CB:  The third novel in my The Spies of WWII series: Sing Until You Die. Claire claims to despise Wills Mason, but does she really? When Claire is used as means of spying without her knowledge and pulled into serious trouble, the only person she can trust is Wills. She experiences a true faith in God, while helping Wills catch the spies, learns love was waiting all along in the wings of her life.

Purchase CALEB’S DESTINY on Amazon

 

THE REVISIONARY (The Rogues Book 1) by Kristen Hogrefe ~ Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight, Spring 2020

Dystopian Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Teen and Young Adult, Thrillers and Suspense

Q:  What is your latest release/release you chose to spotlight, and what would you like us to know about it? What take away? If its theme is pertinent to the time of year or a holiday that’s coming up, mention that.  

KH:  TEH REVISIONARY presents the theme of finding hope for tomorrow, a timely message given the uncertainty so many are facing today. My heroine Portia sets out to save her brother from a satellite prison camp, but ultimately realizes she needs rescuing herself. Her search for the true Source of hope leads her on an adventure of rediscovering America’s godly heritage that her government has suppressed.

Q:  Please tell both fiction readers and writers what your writing journey has been like. How long have you been seriously writing? What have you learned? Did you experience anything unexpected? What has been your greatest joy?

KH:  My writing journey has been an adventure of its own! I’ve been writing seriously since college and have learned so much in the process: from self-publishing to working with a traditional publisher. A teacher at heart, I’ve adopted a “teach-as-you-go” style that has involved sharing my experiences at writer’s conferences and online courses. My greatest joy has come through meeting readers and building friendships with other writers.

Q:  Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight encourages excellence in Christian fiction. What are things you look for in terms of excellence in novels you read? What is the latest novel you’ve read that you could heartily recommend and why?

KH:  I look for books that engage me and answer the question: Why should I care? I also appreciate when the author’s message comes through as a natural part of the story. My latest read and recommendation is Beneath the Surface by Lynn H. Blackburn. What a page-turner! Blackburn also confronted her characters with hard questions, like: Why doesn’t God answer prayers? Why does He let bad things happen? She shared her faith well through story.

Q:  How has grace functioned in your life, been important to you? Do you have a joyous, unique, or even humorous story to tell about how grace manifested in your daily life, perhaps unexpectedly?

KH:  My husband and I recently bought our first home together, and it’s a “project” house. Bathrooms, kitchen, flooring … they all have to be redone. It’s an awesome adventure to share together but also a challenge for this recovering perfectionist! God is helping me to have grace and be grateful for what is done, not what isn’t. The other day, I thanked Him for our currently pink bathroom instead of dwelling on what we need to change.

 

Q:  What will you be doing next, either in writing or in life?

KH:  Aside from home renovations, I have several writing projects in the works, including a contemporary YA suspense, a romantic suspense (women’s fiction), and a young adult spiritual growth nonfiction. I am prayerfully seeking God’s guidance and open doors for these projects. Like so many of you, I’ve also had to postpone trips, so I’ll be glad to travel again when it’s safe to do so!

Purchase THE REVISIONARY on Amazon

 

RIVEN by H.L. Wegley ~ Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight, early spring

 

Suspense, Political Thriller, Dystopian

 

Q:  What is your latest release/release you chose to spotlight, and what would you like us to know about it? What take away? If its theme is pertinent to the time of year or a holiday that’s coming up, mention that.

H.L:  My newest story, RIVEN (Riven Republic 1), was released this week, on March 8. At first glance, it may seem like a political thriller that predicts Civil War 2, but the main point is that the division in America today arises from two incompatible worldviews. What one calls good, the other calls evil. There is no significant common ground to be found and no peaceful resolution to the conflict, unless hearts and minds are changed through something like another Great Awakening. Another take away is the hero and heroine learn that our spiritual growth can be stunted, and our lives made miserable, if we don’t learn both to give and receive forgiveness.

Q:  Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight encourages excellence in Christian fiction. What are things you look for in terms of excellence in novels you read? What is the latest novel you’ve read that you could heartily recommend and why?

H.L.:  Reading first person, present tense is not my favorite way to take in a story. And I prefer fast-paced stories with thriller-level plots. Terri Blackstock’s IF I RUN series passed neither test, but I’ve enjoyed that series twice in the past three years. The main reason is that the heroine is a person we can love, root for and, unlike many Hollywood movie heroes, we can feel good about doing so. Also, the Christian elements unfold in a way that allows us to discover spiritual truths along with the character, rather than feeling like we’re being force-fed. I guess sometimes story trumps style.

Q:  How has grace functioned in your life, been important to you? Do you have a joyous, unique, or even humorous story to tell about how grace manifested in your daily life, perhaps unexpectedly?

H.L.:  In the winter of 1974, at the 7-year mark, we decided not to go career in the military, so we selected a discharge date. This was during the Oil Embargo. The U.S. economy was in the tank. There were no jobs, certainly not for meteorologists. The USAF unexpectedly released me long before our agreed upon discharge date. I think they needed our base housing for an incoming officer. With no home, no job prospects, and hardly any gas to be found, my wife and I and our two small kids drove from North Dakota to Washington in zero-degree weather. At one point, we coasted down into Bozeman, MT, and into a gas station. The engine died at the pump, but they had gas.  We drove on to Washington and spent the night with my sister-in-law. I found a Meteorologist’s position at Pacific Northwest Laboratories the next day. That Sunday, I misunderstood my wife about the church we wanted to visit and drove to the wrong one. In the lobby, we ran into a classmate from high school who became our best friend. There we were introduced to a woman in the church who needed to lease her home (there were no rentals available in the entire area at that time). The list goes on and on. But in about 72 hours our lives went from unsettling uncertainty to blessed assurance. God confirmed that He had placed us where He wanted us at a time when we hadn’t a clue about our future.

Q:  What will you be doing next, either in writing or in life?

H.L.:  My writing will move on to RESISTING, book 2 in the RIVEN REPUBLIC series. But I’m not actually writing yet, because I’ve been ordered not to. Someone thought I needed a break. So, I’m re-reading RIVEN and noting all the actions and intentions mentioned that must be spliced into the plot of the next book. After the tortuous nine months we just came through—I was sick for 3 months and we had a death in the family which resulted in heavy, unexpected travel—it would be hazardous to my health to say I’ve started writing book 2. By that I mean my wife’s Irish eyes would not be smiling. Anyone married to the stereotypical Irish girl understands. There’s a lot of truth packed into those lyrics of When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.

Purchase RIVEN on Amazon

V. B. Tenery ~ Grace Filled Fiction Author Spotlight, late winter

Mystery-Suspense, Thriller. International Crime

Q: What release do you chose to spotlight, and what would you like us to know about it?

V.B.: MISSING is the fourth novel in the award-winning Matt Foley/Sara Bradford mystery/suspense series. Each novel is complete in itself. You don’t have to read the whole series to find out what happens. The eBook format of the first book in this series, Works of Darkness is free on Amazon. Here’s the back-cover synopsis:

Police Chief Matt Foley’s secure world is collapsing on multiple levels. A shadowy figure from his past seeks vengeance in its simplest form. A life for a perceived injustice. The ex-convict-father of Matt’s children has re-emerged into their lives. While Matt’s life hangs in the balance, Sara Foley is missing on the wrong side of the Mexican border in the clutches of a Mexican drug lord. Their restoration lies in the hands of an old nemesis.

Q:  Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight encourages excellence in Christian fiction. What are things you look for in terms of excellence in novels you read? What is the latest novel you’ve read that you could heartily recommend and why?

V.B.:  I look for heroic, compassionate characters, a great plot, and realistic settings in novels. I don’t have a lot of time to read so I have to choose carefully.  I’ve always been fascinated with the WWII era and I just finished reading Jeffery Deaver’s, GARDEN OF BEASTS. It’s an older novel and it isn’t Christian fiction but it is an extraordinary look into pre-war Germany, reminiscent of WINDS OF WAR by Herman Wouk.  

Q: How has grace functioned in your life, been important to you? Do you have a joyous, unique, or even humorous story to tell about how grace manifested in your daily life, perhaps unexpectedly?

V.B.:  The joyous stories in my life these days have to do with my twin grandchildren. But on a more somber note, I suppose we all have family issues from time to time and often they fail to see the wisdom in advice they receive. That’s where grace comes into my life. It isn’t always easy to do, but I’ve learned to not worry or stress about it. If I’ve done my best, I simply love them, pray for them, and turn it over to God. And he never fails to give me peace.

Q: What will you be doing next, either in writing or in life?

V.B.:  I’m currently about two-thirds finished with the fifth Matt Foley novel, A TIME TO SPEAK which I hope to release in April 2020. After that, I’m heading for a vacation at Disney World with the twins. I absolutely can’t wait.

Purchase MISSING on Amazon

Grace Filled Fiction Christmas Sweeps ~ 2019

 

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…[KJV]

 

Five authors are promoting their novels/novellas … and they will give away a copy of their book to five winners from readers who leave comments. This is our authors’ Christmas gift to the winners. Click above, under the blog’s title, to leave a comment. Winners will be selected between December 26th and January 7. We will begin notifying winners after the second week in January.

ANNABELLE’S JOY by Betty Thomason Owens ~ When the rush of the holidays leaves us stressed, it’s nice to retreat to a happy place. Annabelle’s Joy is a respite from the hustle and bustle of present-day holiday prep. Take a ride back to small town 1957, a simpler time when folks spent their evenings sitting out on the porch, sipping sweet tea. Annabelle and her next-door neighbor, Tom Franklin, keep the town gossips busy trying to figure out whether they’re just good friends, or something a lot more interesting.   Website Purchase On Amazon

 

ACTS OF MALICE by Nike N. Chillemi ~ Lavender Raines and Mac ‘Mackey’ Mackenzie hardly know each other. They’re polar opposites. She’s ever the diplomat. He’s got a tough-guy guardian spirit. Each spends their holiday season filled with angst, a bit of humor, and bittersweet moments and memories. It won’t get better and it could get worse if greedy real estate moguls and the Deep State have their say. A classic Christmas murder mystery read with underlying national security themes. Website   Purchase On Amazon

 

 

COWBOYS, BILLIONAIRES, AND OTHER CHRISTMAS FANTASIES: A Christian Romance Collection by Suzanne D. Williams ~ Four exclusive Christmas romances to put you in the spirit of the season. Spend your daydreams with cowboy Mustang Holt, as he tries to find home again. Enjoy a sweet and funny trip to Mama’s with married couple, Karen and Carlton Mead, and their two teenagers. Spin a royal Christmas fantasy with coworkers, Laurie Gray and Skelley Black. But especially, don’t miss reclusive billionaire Cash McShane, and the double crossover story, Christmas Cash – only available in this set! Christmas is better with romance.   Website   Purchase On Amazon

 

CHRISTMAS UNDER WRAPS by Fay Lamb ~ How does an alligator fit into a Christmas romance? Well, Abercrombie is the mayor’s fiercest foe, the heroine’s best friend, and the hero … Abercrombie risks his life to save that man’s hide. It’s just Christmas in Mullet Harbor.   Website   Purchase On Amazon

 

THE SECRET IN THE CLIFFS by Kristin Tucker ~ The reason we celebrate Christmas is often lost in the commotion of gift buying, meal preparation and spending time with family.  Although these are all wonderful things, the hope is that  people will reflect on the fact that we are celebrating Jesus’ birthday.  The Secret in the Cliffs is an adventure/ mystery story that endeavors to prove that the Bible is not just a made-up story, but indeed based in historical fact.  Anyone who reads it will certainly be encouraged to find the proof for themselves, and for those who already believe, that it will strengthen their faith.

Suzanne D. Williams ~ Grace Filled Fiction Author Spotlight, Fall 2019

Author-Author: Romance, Westerns, Devotionals

 

Grace Filled Fiction Spotlight is thrilled to showcase one of our favorite authors who is a wonderful writer and a wonderful person…Suzanne D. Williams. We’d like to get to know a little more about her.

GFFS:  Grace is an important concept to Grace Filled Christian Fiction as a Christian writers organization and a theme that runs through everything we do. How has grace been important in your life and what does it mean to you?

Suzanne:  When I was at the bottom of life, too afraid to leave home, though I didn’t fully understand God’s grace, looking back, I was the least deserving of it and in no mental shape to earn my freedom. But then, that is the grace of God, that He loved me enough to show me the way out, one step at a time, one day at a time. And to give me the gift of writing to express myself and share what God wants to do for others, whether in fiction or nonfiction format. I write what God gives me, humbled that He uses me at all.

GFFS: What is your latest release and what would you like us to know about  it?

Suzanne:  I have 2 books this fall and Christmas season. A compilation set, COWBOYS, BILLIONAIRES, and OTHER CHRISTMAS FANTASIES  and a book release on October 15th entitled, GRAVEROBBER (The Reserrectionists, Book 1). The first is a set of 4 exclusive Christmas-themed stories, which includes a double crossover to two of my billionaire series. This is a story I have wanted to write for quite sometime.

GFFS:  What will you be doing next, either in writing or in life?

Suzanne:  I am writing Book 2 of a western series and a top-secret novel to be released next year.

GFFS:  Looking back at books you’ve loved by other Christian authors, tell us about one.

Suzanne: LIGHT OF MY HEART (Silver Hills Trilogy Book #1) by Ginny Aiken  ~~  This is a beautiful book. The description and turn of phrase put me in mind of Jane Austin’s novels, although set in the Midwest. I could see Hartville and felt myself pulled back in time with each page. Dr. Morgan was a delightful spunky character with a great heart for others. Eric, the newspaperman, made for a stubborn, handsome contrast. I can’t recall a male character with a mustache that I enjoyed reading about quite so much. There was also a wonderful array of sub-characters, each one unique and perfectly painted, especially the Patterson children. There were a few instances of head-hopping and a couple times that I got lost in the action sequences, but in general, the plot flowed well and kept my interest, introducing enough new elements as it went along that I wanted to turn the page. The story was clean with a nice attraction in the romance. A couple should show some physical desire, or the book grows stale. That said, there’s no sexual content and no cursing. The Christian message was very clear and, in my opinion, needed in the church. Many would turn their noses up instead of helping those less fortunate. But Jesus consorted with sinners far more than saints. I did feel Eric did a bit too much self-impalement. Overall, a really beautiful book that I enjoyed. I recommend it to adults or teens who read Christian fiction. I’d love to read book two.

PURCHASE COWBOYS, BILLIONAIRES, and OTHER CHRISTMAS FANTASIES on AMAZON

PURCHASE GRAVEROBBER on AMAZON

SUZANNE D. WILLIAMS AUTHOR PAGE ON AMAZON

February Author Spotlight ~ Angela D. Meyer

“Mawwaige, it’s what brings us together…”

Who doesn’t laugh at all the wonderful lines from The Princess Bride? A grandfather who loves his grandson shares a story about a girl, a farm boy and true love told in the setting of corrupt governments, pirates, kidnapping, a revenge seeking Spaniard, brute squads, torture and sword fights.

Even more so, God loves us enough to share His story told in the setting of family dynasties, slavery, war, conquering warriors and kings, giants, jealousy inspired plots in the castle, virgin births, miracles, and the resurrected Messiah. He loves us enough to invite us into that story and then to ask us to share it with others.

Ultimately, as Christian authors, I believe that’s what we seek to do. We share His story one piece at a time. We weave small glimpses into the character and love of God into the fabric of the stories we tell through our books.  We invite people deeper into His love.

February, with the mood of love all around us, is a good time to remember that God’s love is greater than the love we can have for one another. Sharing this story of His love is the greatest reason we as Christian authors write. And it can be the greatest motivator to put ink onto paper.

The desire to share God’s love through story motivates me through the struggle to return to regular writing. In 2013, my debut novel WHERE HOPE STARTS, a Grace Awards finalist, released. In 2016, after the sequel, WHERE HEALING STARTS, released, I found myself in need of rest and my family in need of attention. I took a sabbatical which encompassed most of 2017.

I know there is more to tell of the Applewood Hill series. A story of family broken by the past in need of God’s healing through His love. Book 3 in the series, WHERE JOY STARTS is now close to half-way written. I write in between family, homeschool, church and friends, determined to weave more of God’s story into the fabric of life at Applewood Hill. And along the way, show readers how very much God loves each one of us.

Angela’s Website 

Angela on FB Facebook 

 

Grace Awards Christmas Fiction Sweeps 2017

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…[KJV]

The authors who support and are active in the Grace Awards rejoice at the above Scripture. We are coming into a wonderful, exciting and happy time of year. So, in the spirit of the season, we announce the Grace Awards Christmas Sweeps 2017.

 

Fourteen authors are promoting their novels/novellas…and we will pick at random 14 winners from readers who leave comments. Each author can give away any novel/novella they have written, quite often it will be the first in a series. This is their Christmas gift to selected winners who leave a comment. On December 26th and 27th winners will be selected. Click on the dialog balloon in the upper left under the date.

COME EAT AT MY TABLE (What A Difference A Year Makes) by Ruth O’Neil ~ This first book in the What a Difference a Year Makes series, begins and ends with the Christmas season. Many people struggle through the holidays. Karin Miller is one of them. A chance encounter on an otherwise cheerful day, leaves her reminiscing about the past, and it’s not all good. She finds she has to face her past so she and her family can go on with their future.

WAR OF THE HEART (A Snow Globe Christmas) by Jenna Victoria ~  When a vintage snow globe sends Boston dress designer Louise Martin and British Bed and Breakfast owner George Walker back in time to 1940’s London in mid-December, they race against the clock to reconcile a feud between their families and solve a 75-year-old mystery. Louise relies on God and also on George for guidance then love. Will their love survive generations of mistrust, the Blitz and being stranded in wartime, possibly never returning to the present?

HARMFUL INTENT (The Veronica “Ronnie” Ingels/Dawson Hughes Trilogy) by Nike N. Chillemi ~  Betrayal runs in private investigator Veronica “Ronnie” Ingels’ family. So, why is she surprised when her husband of one-year cheats on her? The real shock is his murder, with the local lawman pegging her as the prime suspect. Deputy Sergeant Dawson Hughes is not sure he believes the meddling New York PI. As the evidence points away from her, he realizes the more she butts in, the more danger she attracts to herself.

THE CASE OF THE CLOBBERED CAD (Nosy Parkers Mysteries Book 2) by Debra E. Marvin ~ This Christmas, come sleuth with Heather Munro! Her youthful devotion to The Girl Detective comes in handy when, pursuing her Master’s degree, she discovers the corpse of a lothario she’d hoped never to see again. As clues come to light, it’s clear someone hopes to frame Heather. Besides her quirky landlady, whom can she trust? There are plenty of suspects, but only two have both motive and opportunity: Heather and the quiet Scottish archaeologist.

CONSPIRACY OF BONES (And The Beat Goes On) by Tracy Krauss ~ When an archaeologist finds dinosaur and human remains buried together, his career and his very life are in danger as unseen forces try to hide the truth. There’s nothing better than mystery and murder on a frosty winter’s night!

NO SAFE HAVEN by Angela Moody ~ Fifteen-year-old Tillie Pierce loves her life just as it is and considers her family safe from the Civil War—until Confederate soldiers overrun her hometown of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Sent to “safety” on a farm, she seeks shelter right in the battle zone. The next days test not only her beliefs and friendships but also her instincts and attitude. Does she have the gumption to trust a God who could give her hope? How can she when He allows such tragedy? A wonderful gift for the holidays.

WITH MUSIC IN THEIR HEARTS (The Spies of WWII Book 1) by Carole Brown ~ A foreign spy is stealing secret plans for newly developed ammunition to be used in the war. Given this spy favors pink stationery, could red-headed Emma Jaine Rayner be involved? Is the preacher, Tyrell Walker, serving as a secret American spy, all he claims to be? While the snowflakes are falling outside, the music is warming hearts inside… Can their love survive the danger threatening to hinder the path of true love?

CONTAGION (Dark Days Book 1)by Marcy G. Dyer ~ As Christmas approaches, zombies roam the earth. Three families stand to lose everything when an obsessed megalomaniac dumps weaponized rabies around the globe creating the zombie apocalypse. As the cataclysm spreads, three families search for safety or risk becoming part of the bloodbath. Can they all make it to the Texas Hill Country safe haven in time to celebrate the Savior’s birth, or will they lose everything in the toughest quest of their lives?

ALIAS RAVEN BLACK by Barbara Ellen Brink ~ For thrills and chills this holiday season, fall into the undercover world of ALIAS RAVEN BLACK. Navigating a slippery path, a young, female, con artist helps the FBI find incriminating evidence against a dangerous mobster by playing nanny to his two spoiled children. Seeking love and forgiveness in all the wrong places, will God finally show Brenna what she’s been missing by turning her life upside down?

CELTIC CROSS COLLECTION(Celtic Cross, Claddaugh, Celtic Knot) by Tammy Doherty ~ Christmas embodies faith, hope and love and the Celtic Cross series illustrates each of them. In CELTIC CROSS, Cristeen must learn to trust as only faith can save her. Leigh, in CLADDAUGH, seeks the hope born of forgiveness. In the final book, CELTIC KNOT, Abby struggles to accept a loving God who lets bad things happen to those who believe. Each concept is wrapped and packaged in an action-filled romantic suspense.

MIRACLE ON MAPLE STREET (A Time of Joy and Family) by Linda Wood Rondeau ~ At the age of eight, Ryan watched in confusion as his father abandoned his family, and his mother clasped the photograph of a cousin who disappeared on her 16th birthday. Though these disappearances occurred decades apart, Ryan sensed they were somehow connected. Now his wife manifests the same apathy his mother endured after his father’s abandonment. This Christmas Eve, all Ryan’s questions will be answered with the arrival of his mother’s long-lost cousin.

THE POISON WE DRINK by Carol McClain ~ What better gift for Christmas than friendship and forgiveness? Second best is a novel dealing with forgiving the unforgivable. We watch as Torie, Adam and Maya, an unlikely trio, bond. Each provides a key the other must have to conquer their pasts. According to readers, this story is a 10/10—a must-read novel that will transform and transport the reader.

THE DEEPEST SIGH (Echoes of the Heart Book 1) by Naomi Musch ~ Get swept away this winter, to a different time, not 2017, but 1917. Marilla Eckert is in love with her family’s farm hand Lang Prescott, but Lang is already smitten with Marilla’s sister Delia. He settles for Rilla but is determined to still have Delia, even after she marries. When the Great War sweeps over them, men are called to fight and tragedy sweeps in. Will any of them find their hearts’ true homes again?

SHE LOVES ME IN THE SPRING (The Nonstop Honeymoon) by Suzane D. Williams ~ Brielle Hensley had her future all planned out. However, her groom nowhere in sight, all those plans crumbled around her. Bradford Barrow wanted to kill his younger brother for running out on his bride. Yet, sent to make a formal apology the next day, he and Brielle make a rash decision – to go on her honeymoon together. Return to spring this Christmas and travel through the seasons in this sweet four-book, bride series.

 

 

Grace Filled Christmas Book Bash 2016 ~ Day One

Authors who have won or finaled in the Grace Awards, who have been judges, who are active members of the Grace Awards Face Book Group, or who have in other ways supported the Grace Awards are happy to show their Christmas spirit with this showcase of their novels at this joyous time of year.

 

MORE THAN A TIARA by  Valerie Comer

 

Welcome to Helena, Montana, and fall in love on Christmas Eve at the Miss Snowflake Pageant! Marisa Hiller’s interest in competing is at zip zero zilch when she discovers the official photographer is the man who ruined her modeling career. She’s made a new life on her family farm, but balks at representing the CSA program in the pageant. Jase Mackie’s regret runs deep for the hot accusations he’d flung at Marisa over two years before. God has forgiven him but hasn’t answered his prayer to bring her back into his life… until now. Can Jase make amends for past mistakes and offer Marisa more than a tiara? Enjoy the rich heritage and innate charm of Montana’s capitol city in this heartwarming Christmas romance offering a second chance at love amid swirls of snow, cups of cocoa, food for the hungry, and the glitz of pageantry.

 

MORE THAN A TIARA on Amazon

Valerie Comer’s Website

 

 

ONE NIGHT IN TEHRAN  by Luana Ehrlich

 

The message of Christmas suddenly became real for CIA intelligence officer, Titus Ray, one night in Tehran when he found shelter with a group of Iranian Christians. Compelled by their unwavering faith, the battle-hardened agent becomes a believer shortly before they smuggle him out of Iran to freedom in Turkey. Returning to the States, he discovers his Iranian mission failed because of political infighting within the Agency. After delivering a scathing indictment against the Deputy Director of Operations, he’s forced to take a year’s medical leave in Oklahoma. Before leaving Langley, however, he discovers a Hezbollah hit man has targeted him for assassination. Now, while trying to figure out what it means to be a follower of Christ, he must decide if the Iranian couple he meets in Oklahoma has ties to the man who’s trying to kill him, and if Nikki Saxon, a beautiful local detective, can be trusted with his secrets.

One Night In Tehran on Amazon

Luana Ehrlich’s Website

 

THE TRANSFORMATION OF BITTY BROWN by Joy Ross Davis

 

Christmas is a time for celebrating with family, but nineteen-year-old Bitty Brown lives alone, without family or friends, on the streets of Ireland. Sick and in need of warmth and care, she stumbles upon a beggar and his dog. This chance meeting will change Bitty’s life forever and provide her with the love she needs to be healthy and whole again. Bitty Brown gives readers a heart-warming story of hope and rebirth, of gifts beyond measure. A story of love, faith, and hope, it is the perfect gift for any reader.

 

THE TRANSFORMATION OF BITTY BROWN on Amazon

Joy Ross Davis’ Website

 

 

BLOOD SPEAKS by Nike N. Chillemi

Veronica “Ronnie” Ingels, Brooklyn gal PI, waited a long time for the solitaire on her finger. When her sometimes boss, a shadowy figure and director of a secret government organization, offers a one-week bridal shopping vacay in Maryland right before Christmas. Ronnie jumps at it. Joined by bridesmaids, Sandra Daube and Bertha Dagney, she sets off for the village of Heritage Cove on Arrowhead Lake, Maryland. Their joyous stay at the rustic yet luxury Heritage Cove Inn is shattered by a murder with tendrils and a clandestine motive stretching back to the assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy. It doesn’t take long for Ronnie and her gal-pals to become targets of the killer. It goes without saying, Taylor County Deputy Sheriff, Lieutenant Dawson Hughes leaves Texas to protect his bride-to-be. He’s joined by Sandra’s employer, conservative political activist Ben Cohen. Neither hell-nor-high-water can keep Gabby Hayes look-alike Hoot Dagney from the side of Bertha, his new bride. This novel is proof positive that romance, Christmas, and murder do mix.

BLOOD SPEAKS on Amazon

Nike N. Chillemi’s Blog

WAR OF THE HEART  by Jenna Victoria

When a vintage Christmas snow globe sends Boston dress designer Louise Martin & British B&B owner George Walker back in time to London, December 1940, they race against the clock to reconcile a feud between their families and solve a 75-year-old mystery. As Louise relies on God; and on George for guidance, friendship then love, will the future George envisions strangle her own dreams? Will their love survive generations of mistrust, the Blitz and being stranded in wartime 1940, possibly never to return to their former lives?

WAR OF THE HEART on Amazon

Jenna Victoria’s Website

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