Distant Heart~ by Tracey Bateman

This book really showed how unforgiving people can be of other's past. The main character of this book Toni was a prostitute from the age of 15. After being rescued from prostitution and coming to Christ Toni was told that if you repent and accept Jesus as your Savior that He washes your sins away forgiving you and leaving you clean, however others on the wagon train did not feel as God did. Some of the members continued to snub her and call her names that reflected her former life. It made me think about how wrong it is to hold people's sins against them when they have repented, if God forgives them who are we to hold a grudge. More importantly God forgives us so how can we hold a grudge against someone else, "for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Anyway in addition to the good lesson the book was also a sweet love story between Toni and Sam. So here is another good period novel that is a also a quick read if you don't have a lot of spare time.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In the second book in the Westward Hearts trilogy, will the promise of a new life out west heal the scars of Toni's past?This series tells the stories of three strong women as they struggle to survive on the rough wagon train and lose their hearts to unlikely heroes along the way/ Thin Little House on the Prairie meets Francine river's Redeeming Love and you begin to get a sense of the riveting historical series that Tracey Bateman has created.In this second installment, we follow Toni Rodden, a former prostitute who sought to escape her past and build a new life, and a new reputation, when she joined the wagon train. Despite much resentment and distrust from the other women, Toni has finally earned a place on the wagon train and found a surrogate family in Fannie Caldwell and her two siblings. For the first time in her life, Toni actually feels free.But while Toni once harbored dreams that her new life might include a husband and family, she soon realizes the stigma that comes with her past is difficult to see beyond and that she'll never be truly loved or seen as worthy. As the trip out west begins to teach her to survive on her own, she resolves to make her own living as a seamstress when the train finally reaches Oregon.But despite Toni's conviction that no man will be able to see beyond her marred past, Sam Two-feathers, the wagon scout and acting preacher for the train seems to know of a love that forgives sins and values much more than outward appearances. Will Sam have the confidence to declare his love? Will Toni be able to trust in a God that can forgive even the darkest past? Faith, love, and courage will be put to the test in Distant Heart.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tracey Bateman is the award-winning author of more than twenty-five books, including Defiant Heart, the First in the Westeard Hearts series. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and recently served on the board as President. She loves in Lebanon, Missouri, with her husband and their four children.

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0061246344

Bluegrass Peril~ by Virginia Smith

I love mysteries, from the setting of the crime to that AHA! moment at the end they are definently one of my favorite book genres. Bluegrass Peril is a mystery set in Ketucky on a horse farm for retired thorourghbreds. Becky Dennison (single mother of twin boys) who handles the office at the farm gets a nasty shock when she finds her boss murdered on the floor of a barn. Now with the help of the new manager Scott Lewis she tries to piece together the clues surrounding the murder as she tries to figure out what to do with the developing feelings she has for her new boss.

I enjoyed this book. It took me into a world that I am definetely not familiar with and it kept me guessing until the very end.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

WHO KILLED HER BOSS?Local police had tagged single mom Becky Dennison as their prime suspect. But she'd only been in the wrong place at the wrong time...admittedly, with her boss's lifeless body. Sure it looked bad, but Becky had no motive for killing...even if she had opportunity.When the director of the retirement farm for thoroughbred champions is murdered, Becky Dennison teams up with the handsome manager of a neighboring horse farm, Scott Lewis, to find her boss's killer. Soon the amateur detective are hot on the trail of the murderer...even as their feelings for each other deepen.The amateur sleuths uncover a trail of clues that lead them into the intricate society of Kentucky's elite thoroughbred breeding industry. They soon find themselves surrounded by the mint julep set - jealous southern belles and intensely competitive horse breeders - in a high-stakes game of danger, money, and that famous southern pride.And for Becky and Scott, this race on the Kentucky tracks has the greatest stakes of all: life or death!
Romantic Times awarded Bluegrass Peril* * * * FOUR STARS! * * * *

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Virginia Smith left her job as a corporate director to become a full time writer and speaker in the summer of 2005. Since then she has contracted eight novels and numerous articles and short stories.She writes contemporary humorous novels for the Christian market, including her debut, Just As I Am (Kregel Publications, March 2006) and her new release, Murder by Mushroom (Steeple Hill, August 2007). Her short fiction has been anthologized, and her articles have been published in a variety of Christian magazines.An energetic speaker, Virginia loves to exemplify God’s truth by comparing real-life situations to well-known works of fiction, such as her popular talk, “Biblical Truths in Star Trek.”

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0373442726

Crimson Eve~ by Brandilyn Collins

This book was a non stop thriller from beginning to end. The book starts off gripping your attention and doesn't let go. I thought the story was great not only was it entertaining but the story gives you a glimpse into the damage that can occur when you try to take life into your own hands. The story was about a woman named Carla who finds herself face to face with a hitman hired to kill her. The people that want her dead will stop at nothing to coverup the secret that is part of her past. If you love mysteries and thrillers pick up this book, you will not be disappointed.




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense™. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline “Don’t forget to b r e a t h e…® ” She’s so well known in the industry there’s actually a club for her non-readers. That’s right. The Big Honkin’ Chickens Club (BHCC) members are proud of the fact that they’re too wimpy to read Brandilyn’s intense fiction. Now and then one of them tries. Bribing works pretty well. (Just ask Deb Raney.) Somehow they live to tell the tale.Brandilyn writes for Zondervan, the Christian division of HarperCollins Publishers, and is currently at work on her 17th book. Her first book, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows.She’s also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons), and often teaches at writers conferences. Brandilyn blogs at Forensics and Faith.Visit her website to read the first chapters of all her books.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Carla stared at the gun and David Thornby—or whatever his name was. Her mind split in two, one side pleading this was some sick joke, the other screaming it was all too real.“Please. You must have the wrong person. There’s no reason for someone to want me dead. I don’t have any enemies.”“Then you’d best rethink your friends.”Realtor Carla Radling shows an “English gentleman” a lakeside estate—and finds herself facing a gun. Who has hired this assassin to kill her, and why?Forced on the run, Carla must uncover the scathing secrets of her past. Secrets that could destroy some very powerful people...Brandilyn Collins fans and reviewers are saying Crimson Eve is her best book yet:
“Collins tops herself by creating a suspenseful nonstop thrill ride … Truly the best Christian Fiction suspense title so far this year.”– Library Journal, starred review“Crimson Eve is Collins at her very best. It left me feeling as if I’d climbed Mount Everest without oxygen … I didn’t think Brandilyn could outdo herself after reading Coral Moon. She did.”–TitleTrakk.com“I’ve never edited a more tightly crafted, deftly woven, compellingly written book.” –a Crimson Eve editor, with 20 years experience“This is your best book! I could not stop reading!” – one of many readers with similar responses
Read about Violet Dawn and Coral Moon, books one and two in the Kanner Lake series.Do you know someone who’s never read a Brandilyn Collins novel? Surely no such person exists. However, should you scrounge up such a friend—someone who enjoys suspense—here’s a special offer from Brandilyn. Be among the first 50 people between now and October 21, 2007 to e-mail her assistant at gayle.brandilyncollins@gmail.com with the person’s name, e-mail address and street address. (Due to exorbitant overseas mailing costs, United States residents only, please).
A signed copy of Crimson Eve will be sent to your friend—free—along with an e-mail from Brandilyn announcing the book is on its way, courtesy of you. (Don’t worry. Brandilyn won’t spam these email addresses. She just wants your friend to know who to thank.) No worries that this story is third in the Kanner Lake series. Each book stands alone. Brandilyn is convinced your friend will so love Crimson Eve, he/she will surely reciprocate with expensive chocolate

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0310252253

Trophy Wives Club ~by Kristen Billerbeck

"...lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age"
~Matthew 28:20

Haley Cutler had the dream life at twenty and eight years later found it all gone. Her husband deciding that he wants the marriage to be over changes the locks on the door and leaves her things waiting for her on the porch. Now on her own Haley realizes how much of her self she lost in their marriage and struggles to find something to hold onto as her life falls apart. Help comes from an unexpected source when her husband's attorney Hamilton Lowe gives her a flyer for a group in his church called the "Trophy Wives Club". The question is will Haley hang on to the pain anger from her divorce, or will she be able to move on and trust the One who will never leave her.

I really enjoyed this book. It is a little different from Billerbeck's other books that I have read since it is told from the prospective of a women going through a divorce, but I felt that I could really understand this character coming from a situation that one might be quick to pass judgement on at first glance. On top of that the book was hilarious, so all in all it was a great read and I'm sure you will enjoy it :)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kristin Billerbeck was born in Redwood City, California. She went to San Jose State University and majored in Advertising, then worked at the Fairmont Hotel in PR, a small ad agency as an account exec, and then,she was thrust into the exciting world of shopping mall marketing. She got married, had four kids, and started writing romance novels until she found her passion: Chick Lit. She is a CBA bestselling author and two-time winner of the ACFW Book of the Year. Featured in the New York Times and USA Today, Kristin has appeared on the Today Show for her pioneering role in Christian chick lit. Her last three books were:Split Ends: Sometimes the End is Really the Beginning (April 17, 2007)She's Out of Control (Ashley Stockingdale Series #1) (Nov 13, 2007)Calm, Cool & Adjusted (Spa Girls Series #3) (Oct 1, 2006)

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0061375462

The Ex Files~ by Victoria Christopher Murray

"A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;"

~Ecclesiastes 3:4

The Ex Files is about four women that handle their recent heart breaks in four different ways. One falls apart, one wants revenge, one turns cold, and the other tries to move on. These four women, previously strangers, are brought together by their pastor to for a prayer group and offer each other support. While none of them think it is necessary or really want to be there this group will affect them in ways that none of them were prepared for.

This book was a very thought provoking book. It shows the suffering and pain of losing someone in the stories of each of the women, but also the triumph that can come from surrendering and putting aside the hurt and looking beyond the pain to the one who never leaves.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Victoria Christopher Murray always knew she would become an author, even as she was taking quite an unlikely path to that destination. A native of Queens, New York, Victoria first left New York to attend Hampton Institute in Virginia where she majored in Communication Disorders. After graduating from Hampton, Victoria attended New York University where she received her MBA.Victoria spent ten years in Corporate America before she decided to test her entrepreneurial spirit. She opened a Financial Services Agency for Aegon, USA where she managed the number one division for nine consecutive years. However, Victoria never lost the dream to write and when the “bug” hit her again in 1997, she answered the call.Victoria originally self published Temptation. “I wanted to write a book as entertaining and compelling as any of the books on the market, put God in the middle, and have the book still be a page-turner. I wasn’t writing to any particular genre – I didn’t even know Christian fiction existed. I just wanted to write about people I knew and characters I could relate to.”In 2000, Time Warner published Temptation. Temptation made numerous best sellers list across the nation and remained on the Essence bestsellers list for nine consecutive months. In 2001, Temptation was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literature.Since Temptation, Victoria has written four other novels: JOY, Truth Be Told, Grown Folks Business, and A Sin and a Shame. All of her novels have continued to be Essence bestsellers; her last three each reaching #1. In addition, Victoria has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and in 2006, she was awarded the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being the pioneer in African American Christian Fiction.

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1416535519

Life, Libby, and the Pursuit of Happiness
~ by Hope Lyda

This book was so funny and unexpected. When Libby's life is turned upside down after a merger at her job she finds herself wrapped up in this intense situation where she is stuck with having to help out her mean and crazy boss. I thought this book was a great read and will have you laughing from the beginning.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Libby Hawthorne makes exotic trip itineraries but never leaves Seattle. She’d like to attend church but winds up at a bookstore. She longs for love—but who has the time? Delayed happiness has been worth it, because she’s about to get her dream promotion...
Or not.
So now what?
When a corporate merger leaves her demoted and disillusioned, Libby realizes she needs to start living authentically...and soon. But just as she tries to uncover her purposed life, her cruel and unusual boss, Cecilia, demands that Libby hide Seattle’s most famous homegrown rock star in order to keep her new, bad job. For the first time in years, Libby doesn’t have a step by step plan to guide her. She must trust her faith and her heart. But what is she supposed to do with her growing admiration for Blaine Slater, a new VP from Chicago, or the surprising kindness of the rock star living incognito in her Seattle apartment? Through the humorous twist and turns, Libby uncovers a big life truth—the detours we are afraid of might just be the perfect path to happiness

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Hope Lyda has always wanted to write. Ever since she was a young tyke with a spiral notebook in hand, she had the urge to fill it. Sadly, Peggy Meets the Midgets did not cause Hope to be deemed a child prodigy, so she continued her path of education. She was grade-obsessed but also truly enjoyed sharing laughs with her circle of creative friends.
Hope attended the University of Oregon and graduated with a double major in Journalism: Advertising and Telecommunications and Film. With aspirations to write screenplays or teleplays, she of course ended up doing public relations for non-profits until she entered the publishing field in which she has worked for 10 years.
Her passions are quiet ones—she loves a good read, an afternoon of free thinking time, writing, journaling, road trips, travel, and pondering life from her back yard pergola. She loiters in bookstores frequently, though has never been arrested for such. Her big hope is to encourage others to embrace their dreams and understand their faith journeys through the practice of journaling and the art of creative living. She hopes to also inspire such things through the themes in her fiction including Hip to Be Square and Altar Call. (There are also visions of a nice Casita with a hammock in Mexico—but one thing at a time.)
When not living in her head, she resides with her husband, Marc, in the Pacific Northwest.

Sushi for One?~ by Camy Tang

This book was hilarious! I laughed out loud numerous times while reading this book. This debut novel of Camy Tang tells the story of Lex Sakai, an athletic volleyball playing girl with a big family and a grandmother determined to marry of each of her granddaughters. With the status of oldest single female cousin looming over her head Lex feels the pressure to find someone but is determined to do it on her own terms. Anyway I really enjoyed the book it is a great story that may just make you appreciate your own family :)

Here is more about the book and the author.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Lex Sakai’s family, big, nosy, and marriage-minded, is ruled by a crafty grandmother. When her cousin Mariko gets married, Lex will become the OLDEST SINGLE COUSIN in the clan, a loathed position by all single female family members.
Lex has not dated for years.
Grandma homes in on this fact and demands, bribes, and threatens Lex to bring a boyfriend (not just a date) to her cousin’s wedding.
Lex does not want to date ... not since that terrible incident a few years back ... but, Grandma doesn't give her that choice.
Lex's options are slim because she has used her Bible study class on Ephesians to compile a huge list of traits for the PERFECT man (and the more she dates, the more she adds to the list).
The one man she keeps running into (and is completely attracted to) doesn’t seem to have a single quality on her list. It’s only when the always-in-control Lex loses control and lets God take over that all the pieces of this hilarious romance finally fall into place.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Camy Tang is a member of CFBA and is a loud Asian chick who writes loud Asian chick-lit. She grew up in Hawaii, but now lives in San Jose, California, with her engineer husband and rambunctious poi-dog. In a previous life she was a biologist researcher, but these days she is surgically attached to her computer, writing full-time. In her spare time, she is a staff worker for her church youth group, and she leads one of the worship teams for Sunday service.Sushi for One? (Sushi Series, Book One is her first novel. Her second, Only Uni (Sushi Series, Book Two) comes out in February 2008!
To celebrate the launch of her debut novel, she's got a huge contest going on. Camy is giving away baskets of Christian novels and an iPod Nano! Only her newsletter YahooGroup subscribers are eligible to enter, so join today.
For more information about the contest, visit her website.
Contest ends October 31, 2007!

The Void~ Mark Mynheir

ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Truth Chasers Book Three
Someone’s trying to play God…and he’s turning Palm Bay into hell.Florida Department of Law Enforcement Agent Robbie Sanchez devotes her life to crime prevention, and it shows: She has no personal life and doesn’t know the meaning of a day off. After all, someone has to be around to clean up the mess crime leaves behind.So when Officer Brad Worthington is brutally murdered, Agent Sanchez is called to the scene along with Brad’s best friend, Detective Eric Casey. The two turn to Lifetex, the genetics lab near the scene, hoping their elaborate security system might have captured the crime outside.But what’s going on inside the lab is far worse: a renegade scientist is cloning humans! As Robbie and Eric pursue clues–and a growing attraction–they are caught in a deadly battle as the clones begin to act on their own volition…but this battle threatens to claim more than human life; the clones are vying for human souls.
The Void is nothing short of a page-turner. Mynheir is truly hitting his stride as one of our industry's most notable Christian novelists. This latest book has it all: suspense, humor, intrigue, realistic police action, and one thought-provoking story line.Creston MapesAuthor of Nobody

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mark Mynheir is a cop writer. He has authored Rolling Thunder (The Truth Chasers Book One) and From the Belly of the Dragon (The Truth Chasers Book Two). During his career as a police officer, Mark has worked as a narcotics agent, a S.W.A.T. team member, and a homicide detective. Mark and his wife, Lori, live with their three children in central Florida.



I am riveted by the book so far the review will be posted shortly :)

UPDATE: Wow. I have read books and seen movies on human cloning, but this was definitely a new take on it. I am going to try not to say too much because I don't want to spoil the story for you, but this was a great read that really makes you think about what the consequences could be if someone tried to "play god" and humans were cloned. The book was action packed with an element of mystery and is something that I think will appeal to all readers, so go out and pick it up you won't be disappointed.

Off the Record~ by Elizabeth White

ABOUT THE BOOK: Ambition is on a collision course with a secret from the past.Judge Laurel Kincade, a rising political star, is announcing her candidacy for chief justice of the Alabama Supreme Court. Her aristocratic Old South family, led by her judge grandfather, beams as she takes the podium. Then her eyes light on a reporter in the crowd…and suddenly her past becomes a threat to her future.Journalist Cole McGaughan, religion reporter for the New York Daily Journal, has received an intriguing call from an old friend. Private investigator Matt Hogan has come across a tip…that Laurel's impeccable reputation might be a facade. Matt suggests that Cole dig up the dirt on the lovely judge in order to snag his dream job as one of the Journal's elite political reporters.There's just one problem: Cole's history is entangles with Laurel's and he must decide if the story that could make his career is worth the price he'd have to pay.A sensational scoop becomes a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Can Laurel and Cole find forgiveness and turn their hidden past into a hopeful future...while keeping their feelings off the record?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Beth White is the author of Fireworks and Fair Game, as well as the critically acclaimed Texas Gatekeepers serie from Love Inspired Suspense.In her own words, she appreciate her most valued roles as wife and mom. Beth is also a second-grade Sunday school teacher, church orchestra member (She plays flute), and artist. She loves to read, crochet, sew, go on mission trips and avoid housework.Beth lives in Mobile with her minister husband, and is currently on staff at First Baptist Church of North Mobile (fondly known as NoMo), in Saraland, Alabama.

I am still reading this book. So far it has been an interesting story about a conservative Judge running for the Alabama supreme court when her ex-boyfriend shows up to report on her campaign. Right now I am not sure what went wrong between them other than Cole was evidently not a Christian and kind of a selfish person when they were together. Now Cole is saved and so I guess the question is will they be able to get past what happened between them. Also there is a private investigator who was hired by her opponent to dig up dirt in Laurel's past so I am also waiting to see what will happen with that. I will be sure to give you an update when I finish the book.

UPDATE: I actually finished this book last week, but have been out of town so I am a little delayed with my update. All in all I really enjoyed this book. It made me think about a struggle I think christians have when they are going through trails. I think that we all question "Why me Lord?" and the answer is why not? Jesus said in Mark 13:13 "And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. " So in trying to live a life for Christ we will be persecuted, but we can take comfort that in the midst of our trials He will never leave us. I thought the story of Cole and Laurel was very touching and romantic but I think the neatest relationship to follow was the one between Cole and his investigator friend Matt. I won't spoil the story by telling you why so check it out for yourself :)

Return to Me~ Robin Lee Hatcher

"I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you."

~Isaiah 44:22

This scripture was written in the beginning of this book. Not only is it perfect for because it is the title of the book is in it, but it also speaks perfectly of the theme in this book. Return to Me is a modern day telling of one of the most famous stories in the Bible, The Prodigal Son. This tells the story of a woman named Roxy who leaves home for Nashville to become a country music star. Armed with her dream and her Grandmother's inheritance she strikes out on her own severing all ties with her father and older sister. After squandering her inheritance and any opportunities she had to make her dream a reality Roxy returns home out of desperation, her dreams replaced by the haunting memories of all her mistakes and bad choices. Her father who has constantly prayed for her return offers her love and forgiveness that shocks her. Her sister Elena who is now engaged to Wyatt, the boyfriend Roxy left behind, finds herself feeling unsure and resentful at her younger sisters easy acceptance back into the family.

I just started this book yesterday and am already gripped by the story. The story of the prodigal son is a great illustration of God's unconditional love for us, and the grace he offers us if we are willing to accept it. Well, I haven't finished the book, but I will post my thoughts after I finish.

UPDATE: I finished the book a coupled days ago. They story really makes you think. I found that I could relate a little to each of the characters. Roxy was haunted by her mistakes. God says that when we truly repent he forgives us and chooses to remember the sin no more. But as we go through life there are the mistakes we have made playing on repeat in our heads. I once heard a sermon on this the pastor said that satan does this to try and put a wedge between us and God. By reminding us of our repented sins we feel like frauds and hypocrites which causes us to distance ourselves. We need to remember that we are forgiven and strive to have a closer relationship with God. On the other had I related to Elena as well. I think we all at times can feel self-righteous and judgemental and we have no right to. As the bible said all of our good deeds are as filthy rags. We all need to remember that we are saved by grace and extend that same grace to others. Needless to say I enjoyed this book, but what I liked most about it was how it made me think about my relationship with God and the people in my life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin is the author of over fifty novels. including Catching Katie, named one of the Best Books of 2004 by Library Journal.

Winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, two RITA Awards for Best Inspirational Romance, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Robin, who is also one of our CFBA members, lives in Boise, Idaho.

To Dance in the Desert~ Kathleen Popa

ABOUT THE BOOK:

“Not a safe world.” How many times had she heard it over and over again? Well, it is not a safe world and Dara Murphy Brogan knew it better than most, which is exactly why she had tucked herself away on a desert mountaintop. Now it was just her, the voice inside her head and the boxes of hastily packed odds and ends—all that was left of her pathetic excuse of a life. Hadn’t she chosen the desert because it was barren and brown and dead looking and far, far away from anyone who may have seen the news?So what was this, this trespasser, this interloper, this wacked out earth mother doing dancing outside her window? Celebrating life and the Spirit in a way Dara never could have dreamed. Until she opened her door and met Jane Cameron.

A book that makes me laugh is a joy, a book that makes me cry is a rarity. But a book that moves me to dance is sublime. To Dance in the Desert is a spectacular experience. Beautifully written, deeply moving, and warmly engaging—that this is Kathleen Popa’s first novel astounds me. That she will quickly be counted among the top caliber of Christian novelists delights me. I simply loved this book.

~Kathryn Mackel, Author of The Hidden

Kathleen Popa creates a compelling vision of a small community’s power to coax waning spirits back toward life. This gem of a novel worked on me like a dream. Popa’s evocative prose captured the nuance and complexity of transformation with equal parts mystery and truth. She conjures the deserts of Dara Brogan’s life with intimate clarity, reminding us along the way of the profound strength of what we take far too much for granted—the deep friendship of kindred spirits. This is a journey worth taking.

~Jeff Berryman, Author of Leaving Ruin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Raised in the American Southwest, Kathleen began her love affair with the desert as a child. Before becoming a writer she, among other jobs, worked in both the juvenile facility fro incarcerated girls and a home for emotionally disturved children. Mother of two, sh lives in Northern California with her husband and youngest son. Visit her blog, Reading, Writing, and What Else is There? She is a member of the CFBA, too! Give her a holler!









The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1589190947

Wedding Bell Blues~ Linda Windsor

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."

~Genesis 2:24

In the middle of planning her little sister's wedding Alex is thrown when her ex-husband who left her sixteen years ago comes back to town. What is a girl to do? Call her friends of course! With the help of her best friends Jan, Ellen, and Sue Ann will Alex be able to forgive and forget or will the past keep her from having a wonderful future?

I thought this book was great. It was an interesting and poignant love story that is the first book of the series, so the stories of Alex's friends are coming. Which means when they do I will definitely be checking them out :)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Linda, a native of Maryland's Eastern Shore, is the author of eighteen historical novels and nine contemporary romances for both the secular and Christian market. A Christy Award finalist, Linda has received numerous awards in both the ABA and CBA, including the Romantic Writers of America's Beacon Award. She lives in Salisbury, Maryland.

Island Inferno~ by Chuck Holton

"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden"
~Matthew 5:14

May I start out saying this book was great! It has mystery, intrigue, and is filled with action. The story is about two people, Fernanda and Rip, whose lives intersect because of a dangerous explosive on the black market called ITEB. Both characters are dealing with the dangerous situation they find themselves in and I especially identified with one of the internal struggles that Fernanda had in the book with sharing her faith. This book was like a great action movie I will definitely be on the lookout for more books by Holton.

Here is a description of the book and some information about the author.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

As the global war on terror heats up, the U.S. deploys a team of highly trained special operators overseas to locate and neutralize threats, bringing EOD expertise to dangerous missions that have no room for error.

A DEADLY EXPLOSION

A new specialty explosive is on the black market: ITEB looks like water, but when it's exposed to air, the effects are lethal! The United States government is frantic to keep it from our shores. Staff Sergeant Euripides "Rip" Rubio knows how destructive ITEB can be. He has already risked his life to thwart a horrific terrorist plot involving the chemical. Now Task Force Valor heads to Panama, on the trail of an arms dealer who plans to use ITEB to make a killing...literally.

AN ADVENTURE ABROAD

Fernanda Lerida is a University of Florida grad student who jumps at the chance to join a biological expedition to a mysterious former prison island. But the snakes, bugs, and crocodiles are soon the least of her worries as the group stumbles upon something they were not meant to see. To Make matters worse, Fernanda soon finds herself alone and being pursued by an unseen foe.
A RISKY RESCUE

When Rip's path collides with Fernanda's, they find themselves caught in the midst of a brutal turf war. Can they use the chaos to their advantage, or will one false step set the entire island ablaze?

"Island Inferno is a boy-meets-girl story. But in Chuck Holton's world, boy meets girl in the middle of a jungle at 25mph. hanging under a parachute with an assault rifle strapped across his chest. You'd better plan on reading this in one sitting. And once you're done, you'd better give yourself time for your pulse to calm down."----TOM MORRISEY, Author of Deep Blue, and Dark Fathom


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Chuck served four years in the Elite 75th Ranger Regiment–the same unit profiled in the movie “Black Hawk Down.” Chuck saw combat in Panama in 1989. After leaving active duty, Chuck flew helicopters in the Wisconsin National Guard while attending the University of Wisconsin.In 2004, after ten years as a stockbroker, Chuck left that profession to pursue full-time writing. At the same time, he began working as the "Adventure Correspondent" for CBN.He is the author of five books, including A More Elite Soldier, Bulletproof, andAllah's Fire, the first of three books in the Task Force Valor series.Today, Chuck, Connie, and their five children live on a farm in Appalachia, where Chuck now pursues his varied interests of farming, writing, adventure travel and public speaking, among other things.

White Chocolate Moments~ by Lori Wick

"And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented."

~Luke 16:22-25

You may be wondering why I chose this verse to go along with White Chocolate moments. In the story the main character Arcineh has to deal with the loss of her parents and the fact that they were not saved when they died. The referred to this verse about Lazarus and the rich man. I really enjoyed this book not just because it was a entertaining read, but because it really made me think of all of the loved ones and friends that are not saved. I had to ask myself am I doing all I can to let the light of Christ shine through me? Am I continually lifting them up in prayer? No one is guaranteed a certain amount of days on this earth and when we die that is it we are going one of two places heaven or hell. The only way to go to heaven is if you now commit your life to Jesus and ask him to forgive you for your sins. Accepting God's gift of grace is such a simple task, but God won't force you he wants us all to come willingly.

Before reading this book I had heard some different reviews that made me question whether I wanted to read it, but I saw a copy in the library and couldn't resist. The story is about a girl named Arcineh who loses both of her parents in a car accident. After the accident she goes to live with her grandfather. When Arcineh is seventeen the issues she had growing up with her grandfather finally come to a head so she moves out as soon as she turns eighteen. The story deals with forgiveness, love, and finding a peace that surpasses all understanding. So go pick up this book I really think you will enjoy it :)

Split Ends~ Kristen Billerbeck

"Teach me O Lord the way of your statutes and I shall keep it to the end"

~Psalms 119:33

As you probably know from my previous posts I am a Kristen Billerbeck fan. So when she came out with another book of course I was excited. This book tells the story of a small town hair stylist who follows her dream by leaving her small town life and moving to Hollywood. With the help of her cousin she secures a position sweeping hair at a famous salon where she hopes to prove herself and begin the illustrious career she has always dreamed of. But she didn't count on the drama that would follow her there or the tall, dark, and handsome stranger that would capture her heart.

Diva NashVegas~ by Rachel Hauck


Diva NashVegas is a continuation of the story of Aubrey James introduced in the first novel Lost in NashVegas. After 10 years of success in the music business, privacy is one thing that Aubrey values and fights hard to keep. Aubrey's hard earned privacy is compromised when her so-called "friend" tells stories about her to a tabloid. Now determined to tell her side she agrees to an exclusive interview with Inside NashVegas, an interview that will change her life in more ways than one.

I did not read the first book of this series (I know I committed a severe book crime, one I myself attempt to enforce, but hey we all mess up once in a while :) but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a different read than my usual, but I think this book translates even if you aren't a big country music fan. The characters were all interesting and I liked the change in point of view throughout the book which allowed you to get in the heads of more than just the main character. So if you want to get an inside look on the life of a country music diva you definitely should pick this up.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rachel is the author of many books. Her current release, Diva NashVegas is the second in a series which began with Lost in NashVegas. She is also a Blogger and a CFBA member! She lives in Florida with her husband. Visit her great profile and learn more.

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1595541918

These Boots Weren't Made For Walking~ by Melody Carlson



Willing to make the necessary sacrifices–even skipping the occasional latte–to ensure career success, 31-year-old Cassidy Cantrell "invests" in a chic pair of boots, certain they’ll make a spectacular impression and help seal the deal on a long-anticipated promotion from her Seattle employer.But reality tromps all over her expectations. Cassie’s job is abruptly eliminated–and her love life obliterated, when her longtime boyfriend dumps her for a "friend." Her self-esteem in tatters, Cassie limps home to the resort town she once so eagerly fled–only to find her recently divorced mother transformed into a gorgeous fifty-something babe with a thriving social life. Cassie wrestles with envy and apathy as she considers the dismal shape of her own physique and romantic prospects. What will it take for her to jump back into life and regain her stride?This sassy and hilarious novel leads readers on a romp through the wilds of relationships, romance, career, and spirituality, revealing that, while God’s plans may look drastically different than our own, it’ll always be a perfect fit.

I just have to say that I loved this book! It was a hilarious, and unexpected story about a woman who struggles to put herself back together after dealing with some devastating disappointments. Cassie is a character who is easy to identify with and I loved how normal she was. Some of the scenes in the book had me laughing out loud especially Cassie's trip to the local gym. When we have great disappointments we often can't see what good could come of those things but God always has a plan. The story was a nice reminder that even though things may not work out the way we want them to God is always in control.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Melody Carlson has published over 100 books for adults, children, and teens, including On This Day, Finding Alice, the Notes from a Spinning Planet series, and Homeward, which won the Rita Award from Romance Writers of America. She and her husband, the parents of two grown sons, make their home near the Cascade Mountains in Central Oregon. Melody is a full-time writer as well as an avid gardener, biker, skier, and hiker.

Snitch

Snitch~ by Rene Gutteridge

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Old School meets New School meets Homeschool
Just shy of retirement and a well-earned pension, Las Vegas Police Department Sergeant Ron Yeager's definition of "active duty" involves shifting his bad leg into a more comfortable position. But when he's requested from his mind-numbing desk job to head an undercover auto theft task force, the former narcotics officer determines to prove he's still got the right stuff.That is...until he meets his unlikely team of officers.As Yeager soon finds out, not all the crazies are on the street. An undercover rookie, the audaciously honest Mackenzie "Mack" Hazard sends Yeager's blood pressure skyrocketing by wearing her faith like an ever-present badge. Then there's Jesse Lunden, a maverick undercover officer who refuses to learn anything from an old guy with a cane. Can this tangle of egos and eccentrics be trained into a lean, mean, crime-fighting machine...even while they are being drawn into something much bigger and more dangerous than anyone imagined?In her trademark style, Rene Gutteridge blends zany, original characters, sincere faith, and surprising plot twists into one hilariously addictive read.
"Snitch is an engaging crime novel, balanced between sheer whimsy and genuine human drama."
....CHRIS WELL, author of Tribulation House
"A wonderful, fully developed ensemble cast makes Snitch an entertaining, engaging read. Rene's flair for a comedic, well-turned phrase shines here. Snitch is worth snatching."
...SUSAN MEISSNER, author of Widows and Orphans

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rene Gutteridge is the author of several novels, including Ghost Writer (Bethany House Publishers) The Boo Series (WaterBrook Press) and the Storm Series, (Tyndale House Publishers. She will release three novels in 2006: Storm Surge (Tyndale) My Life as a Doormat (WestBow Press, Women of Faith)Occupational Hazards Book #1: Scoop (WaterBrook Press).
She has also been published over thirty times as a playwright, best known for her Christian comedy sketches. She studied screenwriting under a Mass Communications degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Oklahoma City University, and earned the "Excellence in Mass Communication" award. She served as the full-time Director of Drama for First United Methodist Church for five years before leaving to stay home and write. She enjoys instructing at writer's conferences and in college classrooms. She lives with her husband, Sean, a musician, and their children in Oklahoma City.

Orchard of Hope~ by Ann H. Gabhart

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Nothing will be the same after the summer of 1964.Drought has gripped the quiet Kentucky town of Hollyhill, and the town seems as if it is holding its breath--waiting. Jocie Brooke is nervous about starting high school. Her sister Tabitha is experiencing the weariness of waiting for a new baby. Her father David is feeling the timidity of those first steps toward true love. All of these pivotal steps in life are awaiting the Brooke family.Into this cloud of tense anticipation, a black family from Chicago, the Hearndons move here to plant an orchard outside of town. Fresh off the Freedom Train, Myra Hearndon is sensitive to what the color of her skin may mean in a Southern town. Her family will have to contend with more than the dry ground and blazing sun as they try to create their ORCHARD OF HOPE.Jocie finds herself befrending a boy that some townspeople shun. Due to unspoken racial lines in this southern town, the presence of these newcomers sparks a smoldering fire of unrest that will change Hollyhill..and Jocie...forever.In this close-knit community, everything is about to change.Let this riveting novel take you along to experience unexpected love, new life, and renewed faith amid life's trials.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ann H. Gabhart has published a number of adult and young adult novels with several different publishers. The author of The Scent of Lilacs, Ann and her husband live a mile from where she was born in the Bluegrass region of Kentucky. She is active in her country church, and her husband sings bass in a southern gospel quartet.

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0800731697

Ransomed Dreams~ by Amy Wallace

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amy Wallace is a member of the CFBA and an avid Blogger. A self-confessed chocoholic, this freelance writer is a graduate of the Gwinnett County Citizens Police Academy and serves as the liaison for the training division of the county police department. Amy is a contributing author of God Answers Moms' Prayers, God Allows U-Turns for Teens, Chicken Soup for the Soul Healthy Living Series: Diabetes, and A Cup of Comfort for Expectant Mothers. She lives in Georgia with her husband and three daughters.

This book was Fantastic! Ransomed Dreams has all of my favorite elements for a good book suspense, romance, and drama. The story grips you from its opening and takes you on a intense journey that will make the book hard to put down.

Gracie Lang had all of her dreams shattered in one night. Now racked with grief Gracie has one goal that keeps her going, justice. Two years into her quest for justice Gracie path crosses with FBI agent Steven Kessler who works in the Crimes Against Children Unit. All of the pain of his job combined with the pain caused by his ex-wife turned him against God. Driven by their painful pasts they had no idea where their journeys would take them or the danger that would give them no where to look but up.

I highly recommend this book. But you don't have to take my word for it here is what some author have to say about the book.

Steeped in police intrigue and rich characters, Ransomed Dreams entertains, educates, and captivates. Amy Wallace is a fresh, vibrant voice in the Christian market

~Mark Mynheir, Homicide Detective and Author of The Void

Ransomed Dreams had me hooked from the start and didn't let go until the deeply satisfying ending.

~Kristin Billerbeck, Author of What a Girl Wants

The book link is: a http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/159052747X

Tribulation House~ Chris Well

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Chris Well is a fellow member of the CFBA and founder of its sister organization, FIRST. He is an acclaimed novelist and award–winning magazine editor and has previously written the “laugh–out–loud Christian thrillers” Deliver Us from Evelyn and Forgiving Solomon Long(one of Booklist’s Top 10 Christian Novels of 2005). He has also contributed to 7ball, Infuze, and Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine. Chris and his wife live in Tennessee, where he is hard at work on his next novel.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

IT’S NOT THE END OF THE WORLD—WHICH COULD BE A PROBLEM...Mark Hogan has it all. The job. The family. A position on the board at church. All he’s missing is a boat. Not just any boat—a 2008 Bayliner 192.When Reverend Daniel Glory announces that the Rapture is taking place on October 17 at 5:51am, Hogan realizes his boat–buying days are numbered. So he does what any man in his situation would do—he borrows a load of money from the mob.Not that there’s any risk involved: After all, when the Rapture comes, Hogan will be long gone. The mob will never find him.But when Jesus fails to come back on schedule, Mark Hogan finds the mob is in no mood to discuss the finer points of end–times theology...Chris Well’s laugh–out–loud Christian thrillers appeal to the millions of readers who gobble up the rollicking crime fiction of Janet Evanovich and Elmore Leonard. TRIBULATION HOUSE does not disappoint!

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0736917411

Valiant Hearts~ by Linda Chaikin

"Oh Lord, in you I put my trust; Save me from all those who persecute me;
And deliver me, Lest they tear me like a lion, Rending me in pieces, while there is none to deliver."

~Psalms 7:1-2

Valiant Hearts is the final book in the series about Allison Wescott during WWI. This book continues the story from Lions in the Desert nurse Allison Wescott finds herself again in the middle of mysterious circumstances during the war and has to deal with her unpredictable relationship with British Intelligence Officer Bret Holden. I really enjoyed this series it was romantic and suspenseful and the way that Allison puts her trust in God even in the midst of so much tragedy is inspiration. The only thing I have to warn you about the book is the last one in the series is very hard to find since it is out of print. But if you do find it it's definitely worth it.

The Heir~ by Paul Robertson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Paul Robertson is a computer programming consultant, part-time high-school math and science teacher, and former independent bookstore owner in Blacksburg, Virginia. This is his first novel.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Jason Boyer Just Got an Inheritance to Die ForThe fortune wasn't supposed to befall him. Jason Boyer had known all along his father's business empire would pass to different hands. Which suited him just fine. The money was crooked and the power corrupt. But when an accident claims the old man's life, everyone is stunned by the unveiling of the will. With the passing of the Boyer crown, power-hungry politicians and shady business partners all try to force Boyer's hand. Fighting the temptation of influence and riches, he simply wants to be a better man than his father--but attempting to stand for what’s right soon brings murderous consequences. As those closest to him are endangered--and news emerges that his father's accident may be something more sinister--Boyer finds himself fighting for his soul…and his life!
Is There Any Escape for The Heir?All the money he could ever crave. In the splintering crash of a car plunging through a railing, Jason Boyer's life is changed. All the fame he could ever desire. But the last thing he wanted was the throne of his father's corrupt business empire. All the power he could ever wield.The estate should have gone elsewhere, but the will was changed. And now everything is Jason's. But gaining the whole world just might cost him his life.THE HEIR is a Gresham-like tale of intrigue and murder with a lot of humor and well-drawn minor characters.

Endorsement:

"In THE HEIR, Paul Robertson serves up politics, privilege, and murder with a side of acerbic wit. What a fabulous book--a great mix of angst, humor, and ultimately, hope."

T.L.HINES--author of Waking Lazarus and The Dead Whisper On

The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/076420324X

A Bigger Life~ by Annette Smith

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

In 1997, Annette was working as a home health nurse. She traveled the back roads from house to house, caring for ill and injured, homebound people. Because of her unique position in the lives of relative strangers, she often found herself bearing solitary witness to intimate behind-the-scenes situations full of grace and meaning. The desire to honor both a particular patient and a poignant scene involving the woman and her husband prompted Annette to write a fictionalized story, The Anniversary. That first story appeared as a column in the Houston Chronicle newspaper and as an essay in Today’s Christian Woman magazine. Later it became a chapter in Annette’s first and best-selling book of short stories, The Whispers of Angels, that has sold more than 100,000 copies Since then, Annette has penned four more books of stories, two volumes on parenting, and the Coming Home to Ruby Prairie trilogy. Annette and her husband Randy, a High School teacher and coach, make their home on a wooded lot in Quitman, Texas. They are the parents of two young adult children, Russell and Rachel, both out on their own. Wally, a grateful, rescued mutt provides warmth and entertainment and keeps the Smith’s empty nest from feeling too lonely. In addition to writing, Annette continues to serve part-time as a registered nurse. She finds the people she works with and the patients she cares for provide great inspiration for her fiction.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Joel Carpenter did not plan for his life to turn out like this. He never meant to be a single dad, working at a hair salon in Eden Plain, Texas. But after making a careless choice four years ago, his marriage was permanently shattered. Now at twenty-seven, he finds himself juggling custody of his preschool son with Kari, the ex-wife he still loves, and sharing Sunday dinners with a group of other single dads. Joel regrets the choices that brought him to this place, but it's not until the worst happens that he learns how much he still has to give. In the midst of deep tragedy, he learns that forgiveness is way more important than freedom. Hopefully it's not too late!A BIGGER LIFE is a story of love in the midst of heartache, and friendship in the midst of real, everyday life.

I finished reading this book last week, but I have had so much to do that I didn't get a chance to post this right away. This book again was not something that I would typically choose to read, but I am so happy that I did read it. Joel is an a great character dealing with issues that face many people. Joel made wrong choice and then had to live with the consequences which changed the way he had to live his life. I won't spoil the story, but how he handles the tragedy in his life is amazing. You will truly enjoy this book.