Christian Fiction

This fall brings a rich crop of novels by veteran CF authors, including Lynn Austin's historical drama, Until We Reach Home; Karen Kingsbury's conclusion to the Baxter "Sunrise" series; Kim Vogel Sawyer's Mennonite tale, Where the Heart Leads; Melody Carlson's chick lit Let Them Eat Fruitcake; Claudia Mair Burney's intriguing Wounded; Sharon Hinck's Stepping into Sunlight; and Ted Dekker's finale to his "Books of History Chronicles," Sinner. Rounding out the autumn bounty are the fresh voices of Cathy Gohlke (I Have Seen Him in the Watchfires), Megan DiMaria (Out of Her Hands), and Sara Mills (Miss Fortune).

After their parents' deaths orphan three Swedish sisters, the oldest girl, Elin, takes it upon herself to write to their relatives in America in hopes that they can help them. Their perilous voyage and detention upon arrival at Ellis Island reflect the similar hardships endured by 16 million other immigrants at the turn of the 20th century. Austin writes meaningful dialog and creates memorable characters who resonate with readers long after they have finished the book. Delightfully rich with historical detail and authenticity, this is a terrific read from an accomplished, three-time Christy Award-winning author (Candle in the Darkness, Hidden Places) and belongs in all collections. Highly recommended.

In the concluding volume to Bateman's "Westward Hearts" historical series (after Defiant Heart, Distant Heart), revenge is the only thing on Ginger Freeman's mind, and her target is Grant Kelly, the doctor she holds responsible for her brother's death. The embittered outlaw's daughter tracks Grant to a westward-bound wagon train, but her resolve to kill him becomes challenged when the members of the group have a surprising impact on her. Ginger's relationship with both God and Grant takes an unexpected turn as well in this feisty, thoughtful Western romance. The latest from the prolific Bateman (Oregon Brides) offers a light, satisfying read to while away a cool autumn afternoon. Recommended for CF and historical fiction collections.

Sitting in a church pew on Ash Wednesday in great physical pain, African American mother Gina Merritt prays for relief, instantly having a vision of Jesus, who kisses her hands and leaves the stigmata of two red roses. The junkie sitting next to her touches Gina, and believing he is cured of his addiction, follows her home. This original tale about the nature of miracles in modern times from the author of Zora and Nicky: A Novel in Black and White and the "Amanda Bell Brown" mystery series includes the viewpoints of a Catholic priest, a Protestant minister, and a cast of colorful characters, including a transvestite drug dealer. The subject matter may be controversial for some readers, but this thought-provoking novel deserves a place in fiction collections, especially where there is a demand for books that feature African American protagonists. Highly recommended.

It's Christmas time at 86 Bloomberg Place (I Heart Bloomberg), but getting into the holiday spirt is a challenge for roommates Lelani, Megan, Anna, and Kendall as Megan has to cope with a challenging boss and may be forced to spend Christmas alone, while Lelani has family troubles and can't afford to fly home. Anna has met a great guy, but an old love shows back up and may ruin everything, and Kendall is trying to woo a wealthy actor to bale herself out of a tight financial situation. This is typical Christian chick lit, narrated with the light humor readers have grown to expect from Carlson (A Mile in My Flip Flops, Hidden History, and These Boots Weren't Made for Walking). This witty title will appeal to young female readers and those who enjoy Kristin Billerbeck's "Ashley Stockingdale" series.

Supernatural horror writer Dekker sets the third book in the "Paradise" series (after Showdown and Saint) in a futuristic world that prohibits the free speech of Christians. When a series of racially motivated crimes threatens the country's stability, Billy Rediger and Darcy Lange, empowered as a result of a research project gone wrong, demand that the Constitution be amended to classify religious speech as hate crimes. The mysterious and evil Marsuvees Black also returns to convince others to join him. However, one man, Johnny Drake, refuses to deny his Christian faith and will lead the 3000 who choose to disobey. Filled with prophetic imagery and dire warnings about a dangerous future civilization, Dekker's thriller, which also concludes his "Books of History Chronicles" (Black, Red, and White, among others), will be in demand by the author's many fans. Recommended for most visionary and CF suspense collections.

When Linda Revere's son brings home a fiancée who doesn't match her expectations, she is not laughing. Linda raised her children in a Christian home and prayed that they would marry within the faith. On top of that, her new promotion at a photography studio is stressing her, and her once well-ordered life seems to be spinning out of control. Readers who have experienced the anxiety of a parent whose children make life choices they don't agree with will relate to the protagonist of this contemporary tale in which Linda eventually realizes that God always has the upper hand. Written in a friendly, engaging style, DiMaria's second novel (after Searching for Spice) is recommended for public library collections.

In this excellent Civil War sequel to the Christy Award-winning William Henry Is a Fine Name, Robert Glover is now 17 years old. Although he promised his father not to join the Union Army until he became of age, circumstances force Robert to head for the war. He must also cope with his mother's growing mental illness and rely on his own faith to carry him through his trials. Gohlke's attention to authentic period detail and well-drawn, engrossing characterizations distinguish this outstanding historical novel, and the first-person narrative will draw readers into Robert's gripping life and adventures. Equally appropriate for adults and teens, this is highly recommended for all collections. Gohlke formerly worked as a school librarian.

In this uplifting novel set in Chesapeake, VA, Penny Sullivan is losing her grip after witnessing a traumatic event. She cannot even go to the grocery store without feeling that familiar panic. Tormented by nightmares and unable to enjoy life the way she used to, Penny is desperate. Making things worse is that Tom, her Navy husband, receives orders to ship out, leaving her alone in charge of their family. In an attempt to regain control of her life, Penny decides to start doing things for others in hopes that she will get better before Tom returns. Well written and compelling, this title will appeal to readers of Karen Kingsbury, Ann Tatlock, and Angela Elwell Hunt. Recommended for CF and women's fiction collections. Hinck is also the author of Symphony of Secrets and the "Sword of Lyric" series (The Restorer, The Restorer's Journey, The Restorer's Son).

The final title in the "Sunrise" series (after Sunrise, Summer, Someday) picks up with John Baxter about to sell the Baxter family home and remarry after the death of his beloved first wife. At the same time, Dayne and Katy Matthews have returned to Bloomington to raise a family and run a theater. Fans of the previous 13 Baxter titles will relish catching up with this beloved family and witness its patriarch build a new life in his sunset years. Although Kingsbury's stories tend to be populated with one-dimensional characters and awkward dialog, her novels are best sellers (e.g., the "Redemption," "Firstborn," and "September 11" series), and this title will be in demand. Recommended where Kingsbury is popular.

Hannah Williams leaves the life she has built for herself in California to return to her Illinois hometown, determined to make things right with her younger sister, Dilly, just paroled after 12 years in prison. Dilly had once committed a desperate act that endangered her child's life as well as her own. Hannah is determined to help her sister rebuild her life, but she is not prepared for the change that has taken place in Dilly during her incarceration. Despite the slightly contrived plot, Lang (Pieces of Silver, The Oak Leaves, and On Sparrow Hill) writes in a sincere voice, offering a strong story with likable characters. This is sure to appeal to readers who enjoy compelling women's fiction and is recommended for CF and contemporary fiction collections.

In 1947, Allie Fortune is a New York City P.I., a most unusual profession for a woman at the time. Her clients include Mary Gordon, who is being terrorized by an unknown assailant, and Allie is partnered with an attractive FBI agent who is also investigating the case. What haunts Allie most, though, is her fiancé's disappearance during World War II. Mills writes in a clear, hard-boiled voice that reflects her love of 1940s suspense films. Joining such CBA thriller writers as Terri Blackstock and Brandilyn Collins, Mills shows promise in romantic suspense. This first entry in a new series will also appeal to fans of historical mysteries. Recommended for public library CF and mystery collections.

Featuring characters from Waiting for Summer's Return and set in the early 20th century, Sawyer's new novel follows Thomas Ollenburger as he graduates from college and has to decide whether to return to his Mennonite roots in Kansas or build his future in Boston. Making his choices more difficult are the two girls he cares about in each place. Thomas will need to rely on his God to help him make the biggest decision of his young life. Along with Beverly Lewis and Wanda E. Brunstetter, Sawyer is one of the top authors writing about Amish and Mennonite cultures, and she clearly portrays the positive and negative elements of living in strict observance of their beliefs. Recommended for public libraries.

On the heels of their successful "Potluck Club" series (The Potluck Club, The Potluck Club: Trouble's Brewing, and The Potluck Club Takes the Cake), the authors team up again to bring back Evangeline, Donna, Lisa, Lizzie, Goldie, and Vonnie. In this enjoyable new series, the women are launching a catering business, which is soon threatened by the personal problems that arise. Including recipes for such delectable dishes as Texas hash, Southern pecan pie, and pineapple muffins, this competent mom-lit title will appeal to fans of Robin Jones Gunn's "Sisterchicks" or Neta Jackson's "Yada Yada Prayer Group" series. Recommended for CF and women's fiction collections.

In this modern-day Job story, Dewayne Jobe is the high school athlete who had it all, becoming a Heisman Trophy finalist in college and marrying the girl of his dreams. But his life soon spirals out of control when a devastating loss severely tests his faith.

Set in the 1960s, this nostalgic fable about mothers and daughters is sure to become an annual holiday favorite. By the author of Giver of Gifts: Three Stories of Christmas Grace.

Believing her prayers will protect the spiritual lives of her children, Ruth puts her money where her mouth is by spending heavily for her church. Her husband, Rick, is concerned that his wife's behavior may be bordering on obsessive-compulsive, and the strain is taking a toll on their marriage.

Traveling home to help her ailing mother, Suzanne Mullins will have to face the problems in her own marriage and deal with the past she has hidden for so long. Featuring eccentric folks, humor, and an interesting story, this is another winner from the author of Elvis Takes a Back Seat.

In 1975, Amy can't wait to get to California and college. Unfortunately, her mother puts a kink in her plans, and Amy ends up running a funeral parlor and watching her mother's unflattering romantic behavior. To bide her time, Amy hangs out with the town's elderly and befriends the local hippies.

In the latest historical novel from Hake (Bittersweet, Fancy Pants), Millicent Fairweather heads to America for a brighter future. During the voyage, she quickly becomes nanny to widower Daniel Clark's young son. A disaster forces Daniel and Millicent into an arranged, whirlwind wedding, but Daniel wants more than a loveless marriage with his new wife.

In Hines's (Waking Lazarus, The Dead Whisper On) latest supernatural mystery, Lucan Freund is an urban explorer, investigating the hidden areas of city buildings. Then he meets a group of strangers who take this habit to a new level, that of exploring peoples' homes and observing their lives. Freund is coerced to join "The Creep Club," whose members begin to die mysteriously, leaving him the chief suspect.

Roman Paulson loves his college football star son Billy but is upset when Billy's coach tries to introduce his son to God. When at a football game a man holds up a sign that simply reads, John 3:16, it is the start of a series of amazing events that will change several people's hearts and lives forever.

David's company is laying workers off, and he wonders if his turn is coming. Overworked and depressed, he takes his wife's suggestion to get away, but David gets more than he bargained for when he meets a shadowy stranger in the woods. Myra is the former CEO of Christianity Today.

In Catholic France, the estate of Huguenots Francois and Madeleine Clavell is seized by Louis XIV. Once the king's lover, Madeleine makes a high-stakes move to try to help her family, one that may ruin their lives. The first entry in a historical trilogy by a debut author.

In this follow-up to A Daughter's Inheritance, Sophie Broadmoor happily enjoys her family's wealth and status until she falls in love with Wesley Hedrick, who is not what he appears to be. The Rev. Paul Medford tries to help Sophie recover her losses, but Sophie is afraid to trust again.

Venus Chau is the video game industry's top developer although not its most popular coworker. Drake Yu had hurt her deeply in the past, but he is back asking for another chance to prove himself. Venus's grandmother is looking to become a matchmaker in Tang's third contemporary romance (after Sushi for One and Only Uni). For CF chick-lit and popular Asian fiction collections.