Christian Fiction Reviews, June 15, 2011
Jun 15, 2011Grab your beach chair, slap on some sunscreen, and enjoy a summer season of CF series debuts (Mary Connealy’s Out of Control; Kathleen Fuller’s Treasuring Emma; Robin Lee Hatcher’s Belonging) as well as new entries in J. Mark Bertrand’s “Roland March Mysteries” (Pattern of Wounds) and Jerry S. Eicher’s “Hannah’s Heart” Amish novels (A Baby for Hannah). Other standout titles for vacation reading include Davis Bunn’s Lion of Babylon, T.L. Higley’s Pompeii, and Dorothy Love’s Beyond All Measure.
In other CF news, on June 21 WaterBrook Multnomah is releasing the first titles in Robin Jones Gunn’s Christy Miller and spin-off Sierra Jensen YA series, Summer Promise and Only You, Sierra, as ebooks. The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) announced the winners of the 2011 Christian Book Awards. The Fiction winner is Chris Fabry’s Almost Heaven.
Bertrand, J. Mark. Pattern of Wounds: A Roland March Mystery. Bethany. Jul. 2011. c.368p. ISBN 9780764206382. pap. $14.99. CF
Ten years ago Det. Roland March put a killer behind bars. His involvement in that case won him national attention when it was reported in a true crime book. Now a young woman has been stabbed to death, and the details of the crime seem eerily similar to the previous murder. Is a copycat serial killer on the loose? Did March put the wrong man behind bars? VERDICT This follow-up to Back on Murder is full of carefully drawn details and further develops March’s character. Fans of River Jordan and CF readers who don’t mind their mysteries gritty will enjoy this entry.
Bunn, Davis. Lion of Babylon. Bethany. Jul. 2011. c.384p. ISBN 9780764209932. $22.99; pap. ISBN 9780764209055. $14.99. CF
Four people have gone missing in Iraq. The Taliban abducted two CIA operatives, but an Iraqi civilian and an American doing humanitarian work in the region have also vanished. Ex–intelligence officer Marc Royce is sent on an undercover mission to investigate the disappearances. Are they related? VERDICT Bunn’s (The Black Madonna) exciting, action-packed thriller features a strong sense of place in its depictions of the people and politics of the Middle East. It is sure to please his fans and win him new ones. And it might be a good pick for readers who like the Christian suspense stories of Oliver North.
Clark, Mindy Starns & Leslie Gould. The Amish Nanny. Harvest House. (Women of Lancaster County, Bk. 2). Jul. 2011. c.304p. ISBN 9780736938617. pap. $13.99. CF
Ada Rupp is set to marry widower Will Gundy and commit to the church when she receives an offer to travel to Switzerland as a nanny. Ada is thrilled with the opportunity to learn more about her Amish ancestors. Aided in her research by young Mennonite scholar Daniel, Ada soon develops feelings for him, but she can’t forget Will. She will need to make some major decisions about whether to live in the past or make a future with Will back home. VERDICT The authors’ series debut, The Amish Midwife, was a Christian Book Expo best seller. Fans of that title won’t be disappointed with this one. Its even pacing and thoroughly human characters will also satisfy those who can’t get enough Amish fiction.
Connealy, Mary. Out of Control. Bethany. (Kincaid Brides, Bk. 1). Aug. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780764209116. pap. $14.99. CF
What happens when the woman you love adores a place that holds nothing but bad memories for you? Rafe Kincaid has kept his family’s cattle ranch going with no help from the two brothers who abandoned him. Haunted by a traumatic event that occurred in a cave on his property, he travels there to put it behind him but discovers the beautiful Julia Gilliland stranded in the cave. Rafe is attracted to Julia, but can he get past her fascination with the cave and the book she plans to write on the fossils she has found there? VERDICT This series debut by the author of such popular historical romantic series as “Lassoed in Texas” and “Sophie’s Daughters” displays her characteristic humor. It will attract patrons who enjoy Christian romances with strong female characters, such as those penned by Robin Lee Hatcher or Linda Windsor.
Eicher, Jerry S. A Baby for Hannah. Harvest House. (Hannah’s Heart, Bk. 3). Jul. 2011. c.272p. ISBN 9780736943369. pap. $11.99. CF
Living in rural Montana, Jake Byler and his wife, Hannah, await the birth of their first child. Jake works as both an Amish minister and a furniture maker, while Hannah takes care of things at home. Trouble soon develops when word of a Mennonite tent revival hits town. The church lost members during the last revival, and both Hannah and Jake worry they will lose more of their flock. Subplots feature an Englisher (non-Amish) who is interested in one of the Amish widows and a developing relationship between Hannah’s sister and a member of Jake’s congregation. VERDICT The character-driven, relaxed story line will appeal to readers of Mary Ellis and Suzanne Woods Fisher. As this is the final book in the series, there will be high demand from Eicher’s fans.
Ewen, Pamela Binnings. Dancing on Glass. B&H. Aug. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780805464306. pap. $14.99. CF
Amalise Catoir is a young lawyer on the brink of a promising career when she meets and falls in love with artist Phillip Sharp. Wedded bliss soon turns into a nightmare as Phillip becomes possessive and abusive. VERDICT Ewen’s (Secret of the Shroud; The Moon in the Mango Tree) suspense-filled tale displays excellent character development as well as insight into the workings of a sadistic mind. New Orleans circa 1974 comes alive in her capable hands. Recommend it to fans of Sibella Giorello and Lynette Eason.
Fuller, Kathleen. Treasuring Emma: A Middlefield Family Novel. Thomas Nelson. Aug. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781595547750. pap. $14.99. CF
Fuller launches her third series about the Amish community of Middlefield, OH, after “The Hearts of Middlefield” and “The Mysteries of Middlefield.” Adam and Emma chose different paths in life; Adam’s took him away from Middlefield and his first and only love. In the meantime, Emma lost her parents and raised her siblings. Now she’s free to make the dream of opening a yarn store a reality. But when Adam returns home, the long-buried feelings she had for him are rekindled. Emma has never loved anyone else, but can Adam convince her to give him a second chance? VERDICT Well-drawn characters and a homespun feel will make this Amish romance a sure bet for fans of Beverly Lewis and Jerry S. Eicher.
Gabhart, Ann H. The Blessed. Revell. Jul. 2011. c.416p. ISBN 9780800734541. pap. $14.99. CF
In 1884 Lacey Bishop marries the preacher whose children she helped raise before his wife died. Then her husband moves his family to a Shaker village, where their marriage is frowned upon, as the institution is considered a sin. It is there that she meets the widower Isaac Kingston, to whom she is attracted. How can two people find true love when the odds seem to be stacked against them? VERDICT The story and writing of Gabhart’s latest Shaker historical (The Seeker: The Believer) are somewhat dry. Readers may pick this novel up thinking it is Amish fiction but will be sorely mistaken. Recommended only to the author’s fans.
Gillenwater, Sharon. Megan’s Hero. Revell. (Callahans of Texas, Bk. 3). Jun. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780800733551. pap. $14.99. CF
Life has dealt Megan Smith some hard knocks. Broke, homeless, unwed, and pregnant, she barely escapes a tornado when she is rescued by rancher Will Callahan, who takes her into his home. She soon falls in love with Will, but she is afraid his affections are no more than pity. Town gossip that she is only after his money convinces Megan to leave, and Will must attempt to change her mind. VERDICT Gillenwater’s third Western romance (Jenna’s Cowboy; Emily’s Chance) features likable characters and a heartwarming plot. For readers who enjoy Amanda Cabot.
Hatcher, Robin Lee. Belonging. Zondervan. (Where the Heart Lives, Bk. 1). Sept. 2011. c.288p. ISBN 9780310258087. pap. $14.99. CF
New schoolteacher Felicia Kristoffersen needs to prove herself to the townspeople of Frenchman’s Bluff, ID. Her inexperience has some concerned, namely widower Colin Murphy. His main priority is ensuring that his daughter Charity gets a good education. An unmarried schoolteacher who just might up and leave to wed does not bode well. VERDICT Featuring an eye for detail and a strong female heroine, this wholesome romance marks a good start to this new inspirational historical series by Christy and RITA award winner Hatcher (A Matter of Character). It is certain to appeal to fans of Lori Wick.
Higley, T.L. Pompeii: City on Fire. B&H. (Lost Cities, Bk. 2). Jun. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781433668579. pap. $14.99. CF
Corruption and persecution are the norm in the Roman city of Pompeii. Cato has come to the city after fleeing a ruined political career in Rome in the hopes of settling down as a winemaker. Ariella has come in disguise as a male gladiator. A young Jew who escaped the fall of Jerusalem, she hopes her wins in the arena will help her claim her freedom and prove her worth as a woman. Though both protagonists have hopes of a better future, they face a great challenge from Maius, a city magistrate with evil intentions. VERDICT This follow-up to Petra is sure to please readers who enjoyed the history, adventure, and suspense of that first novel, as well as fans of Bodie Thoene’s historical fiction.
Jones, Denise Hildreth. The First Gardener. Tyndale House. Aug. 2011. c.300p. ISBN 9781414335582. pap. $13.99. CF
For over 25 years, Jeremiah Williams has been the head gardener at the Tennessee governor’s mansion and has served many first families. But Governor Gray London and his wife, Mackenzie, have a special place in Jeremiah’s heart. He watched the couple struggle for years to have a child. Now five years old, their adorable daughter, Maddie, is about to start kindergarten. When a crippling tragedy strikes the family, Jeremiah must offer Mackenzie the comfort she seeks to find her way out of her depression. VERDICT This tender and uplifting read by the author of the Savannah series (Savannah from Savannah; Savannah Comes Undone; Savannah by the Sea) should find its way into the hands of readers who like the Southern novels of Rebecca Wells.
LaHaye, Tim & Craig Parshall. Thunder of Heaven. Zondervan. (The End, Bk. 2). Jul. 2011. c.368p. ISBN 9780310326373. $24.99. CF
In Edge of Apocalypse, Joshua Jordan was forced to go rogue and use the missile defense system he had created to save America. Now with global events foreshadowing the “end of days” as foretold in the Book of Revelation, Joshua travels to Israel, where he must decide once again whether he should interfere and do what he can to save the world. VERDICT LaHaye’s name alone will have libraries purchasing multiple copies, but this fast-paced novel is in its own right a strong one with a multidimensional hero. Ripped right from today’s headlines, it will attract fans of the “Left Behind” series and other apocalyptic fiction.
Leigh, Tamara. Restless in Carolina. Multnomah. (Southern Discomfort, Bk. 3). Jul. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9781601421685. pap. $14.99. CF
Widowed for four years and determined to move on, Bridget Pickwick-Buchanan has decided to sell her family’s estate and wants to find an environmentally friendly land developer to buy the property. J.C. Dirk has won awards for his green buildings, but he’s not returning her phone calls. So Bridget travels to North Carolina and interrupts his meeting, much to his displeasure, that is, until she drops her family’s name. Soon she begins to fall for him, but J.C. may not be what he seems. Why is he so interested in her family after all? VERDICT A spunky heroine determined to get what she wants makes this third book in Leigh’s romantic series (Leaving Carolina; Nowhere, Carolina) a sure winner. Fans of Kristin Billerbeck and Melody Carlson looking for a quick summer read infused with humor will savor Bridget’s adventures.
Leon, Bonnie. Wings of Promise. Revell. (Alaskan Skies, Bk. 2). Aug. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9780800733605. pap. $14.99. CF
We first met Kate Evans in Touching the Clouds, when she flew to Alaska to pursue her dream of becoming a bush pilot. In this sequel, she is finally living her dream, flying medical supplies to those living in the Alaskan wilderness and working closely with Dr. Paul Anderson. Kate is content with her life and the growing feelings she has for Paul. Then a new boss, with an antipathy toward women, takes over, and Kate must prove herself again. VERDICT Readers who enjoy a clean romance with a bit of adventure thrown in will appreciate this one, though they should start with Touching the Clouds for the character development. Suggest this to readers looking for CF with strong female protagonists.
Love, Dorothy. Beyond All Measure: A Hickory Ridge Romance. Thomas Nelson. Jun. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781595549006. pap. $15. CF
Following her broken engagement, Ada Wentworth accepts a position as companion to an elderly woman in Hickory Ridge, TN. The young Bostonian plans eventually to open a hat shop in town, but she soon befriends two people who change her life in unexpected ways: Wyatt Caldwell, a lumber mill owner, and Sophie, a young mulatto orphan. In the aftermath of the Civil War, townsfolk are none too happy about Ada’s friendship with Sophie, and tensions quickly rise. Then Ada’s employer dies, and Ada must decide what to do about work and her feelings for Wyatt. VERDICT With well-drawn characters and just enough suspense to keep the pages turning, this winning debut will be a hit with fans of Gilbert Morris and Lauraine Snelling.
Myers, Bill. The Judas Gospel. Howard: S. & S. Jun. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781439153543. pap. $14.99. CF
Judas believes that things would have turned out differently for Jesus if God had only marketed him better. As the result of a conversation with the Divine, Judas returns to earth in order to aid God’s newest prophet, a woman with supernatural abilities who is tuned into the nightmares of a serial killer’s victims. But Judas’s marketing plans, which rival those of Adidas and Nike, end in disaster. VERDICT Myers’s allegory will intrigue readers who appreciate metaphorical tales like Maggy Whitehouse’s The Miracle Man. It should also appeal to readers of Christian suspense novels, like those by Catherine Palmer, in which characters question their faith.
Peterson, Tracie. Hope Rekindled. Bethany. (Striking a Match, Bk. 3). Jun. 2011. c.368p. ISBN 9780764206146. pap. $14.99. CF
Wedding plans go awry for Deborah Vandermark and her fiancé Dr. Christopher Clayton when he assumes responsibility for his five siblings. Christopher is concerned about hoisting his family on Deborah, while Deborah worries about the responsibility of raising an entire family and how that will affect her marriage and her plans to study medicine. VERDICT Peterson is a staple of the CF genre and is sure to be widely read for that reason. The second book in this series, Hearts Aglow, did not find as large an audience as the first, Embers of Love, but this third entry is sure to please those who enjoy stories that feature strong female characters of faith. Recommend it to fans of Sharon Gillenwater and Robin Lee Hatcher.
Reaper, L.L. Black Widow and the Sandman. Hourglass. Jun. 2011. c.300p. ISBN 9780982967300. pap. $14.95. CF
Cuban terrorists have released a toxin that is killing children. The Cuban government believes the United States is behind the attacks. Naturally, they are leery of having an American scientist help them develop an antidote. When Roman Tate, a recluse and a mercenary, is assigned to protect fellow scientist Jeanette Mason, the two team up to find a cure before more children die and Cuba launches an attack on America. VERDICT The pseudonymous Reaper launches a fast-paced suspense series with this engaging and topical tale. It should be enjoyed by fans of Joel C. Rosenberg.
Reid, Ruth. The Promise of an Angel. Thomas Nelson. (Heaven on Earth, Bk. 1). Jun. 2011. c.304p. ISBN 9781595547880. pap. $14.99. CF
Judith Fischer belongs to an Old Order Amish community in Michigan. Following an accident at a barn raising, she tries to convince the other members of her community that she has been visited by an angel. Most, including her fiancé Levi Plank, demand that she stop spinning tales. Only one man believes her. As Andrew Lapp listens to Judith talk about the visitation and the dreams she is having, romantic feelings grow. Meanwhile, Judith’s younger sister takes advantage of Judith’s new oddball status to pursue Levi Plank. VERDICT This first novel is an odd mix of Amish fiction and the angel novels that have recently flooded the market. The characters are well-drawn and the romance is enjoyable, but the premise may put off traditional readers of Amish fiction. Readers interested in angel stories might be better served by Jill Marie Landis’s “Irish Angel” series.
Roper, Gayle. Shadows on the Sand: A Seaside Mystery. Multnomah. Jul. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781601420848. pap. $13.99. CF
Abuse survivor Carrie Carters and her younger sister run a small café in a seaside town in New Jersey. Though Carrie has many friends, she has eyes only for former policeman Greg Barnes. Unfortunately, Greg is still struggling to recover from the deaths of his wife and children three years ago, and doesn’t even seem to notice Carrie. Then Carrie’s dishwasher is murdered, and Greg works with her to solve the case. VERDICT A tightly woven plot and realistic characters make this fifth entry in the “Seaside” series (after Winter Winds) a worthwhile read. Recommend it to readers of Liz Johnson’s novels, which also combine romance and suspense.
Rogers, Martha. Summer Dream. Realms. (Seasons of the Heart, Bk. 1). Jun. 2011. c.304p. ISBN 9781616383602. pap. $13.99. CF
Minister’s daughter Rachel Winston is sure she will never find a husband in her small Connecticut town. That’s why she has decided to visit her aunt in Boston. Then Nathan Reed arrives in town. Rachel is interested, but Nathan seems to be staying as far away from her as possible. When he is injured during a severe blizzard, he is brought to the Winstons’ home, where Rachel and her mother nurse him back to health. VERDICT This heartwarming historical—the first in a new series by the author of the “Winds Across the Prairie” series—is full of period details and has a satisfying conclusion. Recommend it to readers who enjoy the works of Melanie B. Dobson and Lauraine Snelling.
Strom, Kay Marshall. The Faith of Ashish. Abingdon. (Blessings in India, Bk. 1). Aug. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781426709081. pap. $14.99. CF
As members of the lowest caste in India, Virat, Latha, and their son Ashish have their lives circumscribed by certain rules imposed by the larger society. When young Ashish unknowingly drinks water reserved for a higher caste, he is badly beaten. To save his son’s life, Virat travels to a world beyond the one his family has experienced. He begs help from Mammen Samuel, who agrees to lend him the money to seek medical attention for Ashish—in exchange for Virat’s family’s servitude. VERDICT This first book in this new series by Strom (author of 36 books including the “Grace in Africa” trilogy) is peopled by beautifully drawn characters. Recommend it to readers who enjoy historical detail.
Whalen, Marybeth. She Makes It Look Easy. David C. Cook. Jun. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9780781403702. pap. $14.99. CF
Ariel Baxter is dissatisfied with her marriage and overwhelmed by motherhood. When she moves into a new neighborhood, she is befriended by Justine Miller, whose life seems ideal. Justine shares tips for success, and soon Ariel is feeling hopeful again. Then rumors circulate that Justine’s home life might not be quite as rosy as she presented it. VERDICT Everyday characters live ordinary lives and prove that the grass is not always greener on the other side in this second novel by Whalen (following The Mailbox). This is an enjoyable, quick read. Recommend it to readers who enjoy Lynne Hinton and Beth Pattillo.
Windsor, Linda. Thief. David C. Cook. (Brides of Alba, Bk. 2). Jun. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781434764775. pap. $14. CF
Caden O’Byrne has been exiled. He agrees to search for Sorcha, the estranged daughter of Brenna of Gowrys, who nursed him to health after he was wounded in battle. When he finds Sorcha, he discovers that she is a thief who wants nothing to do with him or her mother. A murder forces them to flee, giving the two time to sort out their differences and fight off the attraction developing between them. VERDICT Though this novel (the second in the series after The Healer) has a decidedly Christian bent, it is set during the time of Arthurian legend and is sure to appeal to readers interested in that period. Recommend it to fans of L.A. Kelly’s “Tahn” novels.
Woodsmall, Cindy. The Harvest of Grace: An Ada’s House Novel. WaterBrook: Random. Aug. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9781400073986. pap. $13.99. CF
Aaron Blank is ready to make up for the wrongs he did his family during his youth. Though Sylvia Fischer is not part of his plan, he’s having a hard time getting her off his mind. But Sylvia wants nothing to do with Aaron or any man. Years ago, she asked her fiancé for some time, but rather than give it to her, he married her sister instead. Learning her father was behind this turn of events only strengthened Sylvia’s resolve to stay away from men. Will Aaron and Sylvia go their own ways, or does God have a plan for them that is beyond their control? VERDICT This third entry in the “Ada’s House” series is sure to please fans of the first two novels (The Hope of Refuge and The Bridge of Peace). Fans of Amy Clipston and Marta Perry will enjoy its engaging characters and homespun feel.
| Author Information |
| Nanci Milone Hill (nhill@mvlc.org) is the Director of the Boxford Town Library in Boxford, MA. She has several years’ experience with collection development and readers’ advisory services. She started out in an elementary school library but has spent most of her career in public libraries |
