Christian Fiction, April 15, 2011
Apr 15, 2011
Though those of us in the northern states find it hard to believe, spring is just around the corner, and Christian publishing houses are preparing for a new season filled with exciting historical fiction, including new additions to popular series by Colleen Coble (The Lightkeeper’s Ball) and Ginger Garrett (Wolves Among Us). Karen Kingsbury fans will be thrilled with her new series launch, Leaving, which will feature beloved characters from her Baxter family series. Those looking for suspense in their inspirational fiction will want to pick up Lynette Eason’s A Killer Among Us and Richard L. Mabry’s Diagnosis Death. Zondervan is releasing a new young adult novel by Amy Clipston, Roadside Assistance, but don’t let its intended audience sway you from recommending it to adult readers. Sit back, pick up a good book, and enjoy!
Bonds, Mitchell. Hero in Hiding. Marcher Lord. (Hero Complex, Bk. 2). Apr. 2011. c.450p. ISBN 9780982598740. pap. $16.99. CF
In Bond’s previous Hero, Second Class, readers are introduced to a fantasy world populated with mages, villains, and dragons as Apprentice Hero Cyrus Solburg tries to overcome multiple tasks to achieve this title. In this sequel, Sir Reginald Ogleby, the Crimson Clash, sets off on a quest to unite all of the world’s races. Meanwhile, Cyrus and his cat Kris go into hiding disguised as fishermen. What ensues is a bevy of magical mishaps and problems as the trio try to defy their nemesis, Voshtyr Demonkin. VERDICT Readers who loved the offbeat world of Bonds’s Christian fantasy debut will clamor for more. The author is also sure to win new fans who enjoy the world building and humor of Terry Pratchett.
Clipston, Amy. Roadside Assistance. Zondervan. Apr. 2011. c.288p. ISBN 9780310719816. pap. $9.99. CF
Tomboy Emily Curtis lost her ability to pray when her mother died. Overwhelmed by hospital bills that they can’t pay, Emily and her dad are forced to move in with Emily’s aunt and her perfect cousin, Whitney. Things seem to be going from bad to worse until she meets cute next-door neighbor Zander and his 1970s Dodge Challenger. Emily has never felt as at home as she does working under the hood of a car. Can Zander help her find her faith again? VERDICT Clipston, the best-selling author of the “Kauffman Amish Bakery” series, makes her young adult fiction debut with glowing results. Emily’s angst over losing her mother and being compared to her more feminine cousin is palpable. Engaging characters and a believable story line make this a sure bet for teens who enjoy Melody Carlson. It will also appeal to adult readers of YA fiction.
Coble, Colleen. The Lightkeeper’s Ball. Thomas Nelson. (Mercy Falls, Bk. 3). Apr. 2011. c.304p. ISBN 9781595542687. pap. $14.99. CF
When New York socialite Olivia Stewart’s sister, Eleanor, dies in California under mysterious circumstances, Olivia travels to Mercy Falls determined to find out if her sister’s fiancé, Harrison Bennett, had anything to do with it. The more she gets to know Harrison, the more convinced of his innocence she becomes. VERDICT Coble’s historical series (The Lightkeeper’s Daughter; The Lightkeeper’s Bride) just keeps getting better with each entry. Coble has a strong feel for the time period (in this case, 1910) and has scripted believable characters in suspenseful situations. Recommend the series to fans of T. Davis Bunn and Marta Perry.
Eason, Lynette. A Killer Among Us. Revell. (Women of Justice, Bk. 3). May 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780800733711. pap. $14.99. CF
Hostage negotiator Kit Kenyon and police detective Noah Lambert are new partners. Their partnership is tested by fire when they begin the hunt for a serial killer and discover that the killer is also hunting one of them. VERDICT This plot-driven third entry in Eason’s series (after Too Close to Home and Don’t Look Back) is sure to appeal to fans of romantic suspense as well as readers who like Joel C. Rosenberg and Ted Dekker.
Elliott, Rosslyn. Fairer Than Morning. Thomas Nelson. (Saddler’s Legacy, Bk. 1). May 2011. c.144p. ISBN 9781595547859. pap. $15.99. CF
When Ann Miller and her two sisters travel in 1826 with their circuit minister father from Ohio to Pittsburgh, they are followed by a mysterious man. The pursuit causes Ann to wonder whether her father may be involved in something more than just ministry. Will Hanby is the indentured servant to a ruthless saddle maker. Ann’s arrival gives him hope that he can rise beyond his humble origins. In secret, the two begin to assist fugitive slaves along the Underground Railroad until the Millers return home to Ohio, tearing the kindred souls apart. VERDICT This well-written historical series debut with a homespun feel is sure to please Lori Wick readers.
Ellis, Mary. Abigail’s New Hope. Harvest House. (Wayne County, Bk. 1). Apr. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780736930093. pap. $13.99. CF
Amish midwife Abigail Graber conducts a difficult delivery in which the mother dies and the child is saved. Accused of a crime, Abigail is sentenced to jail time, with no hope of raising the $1 million bail. Her husband, Daniel, must tend their farm and is unable to watch over their children. Abigail’s sister, Catherine, arrives to care for them and meets Daniel’s deaf cousin, Isaiah. VERDICT Ellis’s (“Miller Family” series) new Amish series launch is a gripping tale of choices made and faith tested. Recommend this one to fans of Jodi Picoult’s Plain Truth and Chris Bohjalian’s Midwives, as well as those who enjoy their Amish fiction with a touch of suspense.
Garrett, Ginger. Wolves Among Us. David C. Cook. (Chronicles of the Scribe, Bk. 3). Apr. 2011. c.304p. ISBN 9780781448857. pap. $14.99. CF
In 1500s Germany, a young sheriff is confounded by a double murder and seeks help, which he receives from an Inquisitor who centers his investigation on the town’s women, igniting the residents’ fears that there are witches among them. As the violence intensifies, the sheriff’s wife and the village priest struggle to find the truth. VERDICT This intense novel is a welcome addition to Garrett’s historical series (In the Shadow of Lions; In the Arms of Immortals). The tightly woven story line will keep readers on edge until the stunning conclusion. An excellent choice for aficionados of T. Davis Bunn’s historical novels.
Hilton, Laura V. Patchwork Dreams. Whitaker House. (Amish of Seymour County, Bk. 1). Apr. 2011. c.144p. ISBN 9781603742559. pap. $6.99. CF
The Amish term rumspringa describes the period when Amish teens are allowed to experience life outside of their religious community before committing to baptism. Becky Troyer returned home from her rumspringa single and pregnant. Since then, she has been shunned by her Amish community. Things change when Jacob Miller arrives at the Troyer farm to help with the summer chores. He has been sent by his father who wants him to spend some time away from a young woman named Susie. Becky and Jacob form a tentative friendship that deepens over time into love, but Jacob is sworn to another back home. VERDICT This is Hilton’s (Shadows of the Past) first foray into Amish fiction, and it is bound to please fans of this popular CF subgenre. Endearing characters and a homespun feel make this a sure bet for readers who like Beverly Lewis and Suzanne Woods Fisher.
John, Sally. Desert Gift. Tyndale House. (Side Roads, Bk. 2). Jun. 2011. c.400p. ISBN 9781414327860. pap. $13.99. CF
Having built a successful career as a marriage coach and on-air personality, Jillian Galloway has just written her first book and is looking forward to her upcoming book tour when her husband tells her he wants a divorce. Reeling from the news, she retreats to her parents’ home in the California desert where she questions everything she thought to be true about her marriage and her life. VERDICT John (“The Beach House” and “Safe Harbor” series) has created likable characters facing issues that arise over the course of any long-term marriage. A satisfying conclusion will make women’s fiction readers happy. A good choice for fans of Richard Paul Evans and Robin Pilcher.
Kingsbury, Karen. Leaving. Zondervan. (Bailey Flanigan, Bk. 1). 2011. c.336p. ISBN 9780310266990. $21.99; pap. ISBN 9780310266280. $14.99. CF
Bailey Flanigan leaves Bloomington, IN, to audition for a Broadway musical. She’s hesitant to leave home and those she loves, but she’s determined to take this amazing opportunity. While she waits for a callback, she is approached by a bevy of suitors, including Brandon Paul, her former movie costar, and NFL newcomer Matt Keagan. Unfortunately for them, Bailey still loves ex-boyfriend Cody Coleman who has disappeared from her life to protect her from his mother’s drug-related crimes. VERDICT As with Kingsbury’s other novels (Unlocked), her latest is emotionally charged and features well-drawn characters struggling with their faith. The author is a perpetual CF favorite. Characters from her Baxter series appear in this series launch, and fans will be clamoring for it. Readers of Janette Oke may also enjoy.
Kirkpatrick, Jane. The Daughter’s Walk. WaterBrook: Random. Apr. 2011. c.400p. ISBN 9781400074297. pap. $14.99. CF
Needing money to save the family farm in 1896, Helga Estby and her daughter, Clara, accept a bet to walk 3500 miles from Spokane, WA, to New York City within seven months. For their efforts, they would be awarded $10,000. Returning home a year later, Clara chooses to leave her mother and the only life she has ever known to continue on her journey. The original walk, paid for by the fashion industry to show off new, shorter dresses, is based on historical fact. VERDICT Kirkpatrick (An Absence So Great) has done an outstanding job of illuminating turn-of-the-century America and the effect of the period’s rapid changes on the emancipation of women. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction that features strong female characters and attention to detail.
Kyle, Sherry. Delivered with Love. Abingdon. Apr. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9781426708664. pap. $14.99. CF
After her mother’s death, 23-year-old Claire James finds a 35-year-old love letter in the glove compartment of her mom’s 1972 Volkswagen. Following a series of mishaps that leave her jobless and homeless, Claire travels to California to find the author of the letter. VERDICT This first foray by an author of tween fiction into the adult market is haphazard at best. Characters are never fully developed, and the story line seems implausible. Readers interested in reading about family secrets would be better served by the works of Colleen Coble or Jane Gardam’s Faith Fox.
Mabry, Richard L., M.D. Diagnosis Death. Abingdon. (Prescription for Trouble, Bk. 3). Apr. 2011. c.288p. ISBN 9781426710216. pap. $13.99. CF
After Dr. Elena Gardner’s comatose husband dies in the ICU and another patient succumbs while under her care, whispers of mercy killing begin to surface. Hoping to start over, Elena relocates to a hospital in Texas, but new patients begin dying, and mysterious phone calls abound. Is Elena really to blame for these deaths? Or is someone who knows her trying to set her up for the fall? VERDICT Mabry’s third taut thriller (after Code Blue and Medical Error) is a good choice for readers who enjoy Tess Gerritsen, Robin Cook, and other authors of medical suspense.
Magnin, Joyce. Griselda Takes Flight: A Novel of Bright’s Pond. Abingdon. Apr. 2011. c.400p. ISBN 9781426711572. pap. $14.99. CF
Griselda Sparrow finally has some free time now that her overweight sister, Agnes, is settled into a nursing home. She agrees to take flying lessons from handsome Cliff Cardwell. At the same time, new lottery winner Walter Hughes is in a coma, and a stranger claims to be his fiancée. Walter’s sister, Stella, enlists the help of police chief Mildred Blessing to investigate this woman. VERDICT The quirky characters and fresh humor of Magnin’s latest series entry (The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow) will appeal to fans of Tamar Myers’s Magdalena Yoder series.
Miller, Vanessa. A Promise of Love. Whitaker House. (Second Chance at Love, Bk. 3). Apr. 2011. c.144p. ISBN 9781603742092. pap. $9.99. CF
Yvonne Milner and her husband shared more than just a marriage. They shared their calling to preach. Following her husband’s death two years ago, Yvonne has been the lone pastor to their church. Unfortunately, that has not been going so well, and the church has lost members as well as income. When the board decides to hire another pastor to oversee things, Yvonne is determined to keep her job. Enter Thomas Reed, her husband’s best friend and a widower himself, who joins Yvonne in her fight to keep her ministry. When old passions begin once again to flare, Yvonne must decide whether her husband, and God, would want her to have a second chance at love. VERDICT This well-written, character-driven story will please fans of this series (Yesterday’s Promise; Love for Tomorrow) and earn Miller new readership among those who enjoy the African American CF of ReShonda Tate Billingsley and Victoria Christopher Murray.
Morgan, Kathleen. A Heart Divided. Revell. (Heart of the Rockies, Bk. 1). May 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780800718848. pap. $14.99. CF
In this Western take on Romeo and Juliet, the Caldwells and the Wainwrights have been feuding for years. Sarah Caldwell is instructed to distract Cord Wainwright while her father and brother rob him. Cord has been down this road before and knows what the little minx is up to. Since the sheriff is away, he makes a citizen’s arrest and brings Sarah back to the Wainwright place. There, the two discover that they are more compatible than they thought. VERDICT Believable characters and an attention to detail make this series debut from the author of the “Brides of Culdee Creek” series a sure bet for fans of Lori Wick.
Moseley, Meg. When Sparrows Fall. Multnomah. May 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9781601423559. pap. $13.99. CF
Widow Miranda Hanford feels stuck in her oppressive church. As long as the pastor lords her past over her head, there is no hope of escape. When he announces that he is moving his congregation to another state, Miranda finally senses her escape. But after she takes a serious fall, her eldest son calls Jack, Miranda’s estranged college professor brother-in-law, who arrives to care for Miranda’s six children while she heals. Though Miranda shudders at Jack’s progressive ways, there is an attraction there, and for the first time, Miranda can see how she might be free and feel safe and loved. VERDICT This debut novel is a bit too melodramatic for this reviewer’s taste. Still, the writing is crisp and the characters well drawn. Recommend it to readers who enjoy a little bit of romance and suspense with their preaching.
Perry, Trish. Tea for Two. Harvest House. (Tea with Millicent, Bk. 2). Apr. 2011. c.256p. ISBN 9780736930161. pap. $9.99. CF
Counselor Tina Milano and local farmer—and single father—Zack Cooper are both regular visitors to Milly’s Tea Shop. When Zack’s kids get in trouble with the law, Milly convinces Tina and Zack to work together before things get really out of hand. Before long romance is in the air. VERDICT This cozy follow-up to The Perfect Blend has a homespun feel that is sure to attract fans of Amy Clipston’s charming “Kauffman Amish Bakery” series.
Pittman, Allison K. Lilies In Moonlight. Multnomah. Apr. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9781601421388. pap. $14.99. CF
After a wild night on the town, Lilly, a good-time flapper with secrets she would rather forget, falls and breaks her ankle in the yard of a wealthy gentleman. The property belongs to Cullen Burnside, a veteran who was disfigured during the Great War and who cares for his mother who suffers from dementia. Love blossoms between Cullen and Lilly, who brings some joy to the once depressing Burnside manse. Then Cullen insists he return Lilly to her home, and Lilly worries that the discovery of her secret will end their romance. VERDICT The pizzazz of the Jazz Age flies off the page in Pittman’s (The Bridegrooms) breezy tale. Strong characterization and attention to detail make this a good choice for readers who enjoy Dorothy Garlock.
Seilstad, Lorna. A Great Catch. Revell.(Lake Manawa Summers, Bk. 2). May 2011. c.368p. ISBN 9780800734466. pap. $14.99. CF
It’s the turn of the century, and suffragette Emily Graham has no time in her life for a man. But her aunts have other ideas in mind and try to find her a husband among the guests of Iowa’s Lake Manawa resort. Carter Stockton, the Manawa Owls’ baseball pitcher and recent college graduate, is determined to eke all the fun he can out of the summer before being forced into his father’s business. Neither Emily nor Carter has romance on the mind. Will they give up their dreams for a chance at love, or will they discover that maybe, just maybe, you can have both? Verdict A breezy writing style and likable characters make Seilstad’s latest series entry (after Making Waves) a sure bet for fans of Mary Balogh.
Snelling, Lauraine. On Hummingbird Wings. FaithWords. Apr. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9780446582117. pap. $14.99. CF
Gillian Ormsby’s mother, Dorothy, won’t do anything but sleep, so Gillian leaves her posh New York job as a corporate executive and returns home to California. There, she finds her sister, Allison, less than helpful. Gillian enlists the aid of her mother’s friend Enzio and handsome neighbor Adam to restore not only her mother’s spirit, but her ailing garden as well. VERDICT Fans of best-selling author Snelling (One Perfect Day) will anxiously await this latest outing but will be somewhat disappointed. The story is uneven, and several sketchily drawn characters, including Allison and Gillian herself, could have used more fleshing out.
Warren, Susan May. My Foolish Heart. Tyndale House. (Deep Haven, Bk. 4). May 2011. c.400p. ISBN 9781414334820. pap. $13.99. CF
Isadora Presley has never dated or fallen in love. That doesn’t stop her from making a living as Miss Foolish Heart, the host of a syndicated talk show. Caleb Knight is Deep Haven’s new high school football coach. When he becomes attracted to his next-door neighbor, he turns to Miss Foolish Heart for advice. Little does he know that the woman giving him advice is the very object of his affection. VERDICT This warm and charming tale is sure to be welcomed by those who enjoyed the first three series titles (Happily Ever After; Tying the Knot; The Perfect Match). Recommend it to fans of Judy Baer and Deborah Vogts.
| 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 |
