Second Chance Inn by best selling author Marlayne Giron is a contemporary Christian novel. It has modern day or “English” and Amish elements in it. For me it was a poignant tale that spoke to my heart.
This is the story of Rachel Winston from Southern California. She suddenly finds herself a widow even though she is just in her early thirties. Her teenage daughter, Karen, moves with her to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It is also the story of Samuel Miller, an Amish man who recently lost his wife and five children in a buggy accident. He sold his farmhouse to Rachel and now lives in the smaller Dawdi Haus on the property.
The author has done a fabulous job with this book. I was immediately invested in the story and characters. The characters are crafted with emotions and depth to make them believable and relatable. The dialogue sounded authentic and was true to life. My emotions mirrored the characters, which is a sign of great writing. I felt this book.
It is a charming story that is quite different from most of the Amish tales that I have read. The author does an exquisite job transporting readers to the Amish Community in Pennsylvania. She included Life and Christian messages throughout this intriguing book.
I highly recommend this remarkable book. It would make a great book club choice because there is so much to discuss. It gave me pause to think about what I had just read. I am still thinking about it days later. It earns a 5 out of 5 stars rating from me. A copy was provided, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Publisher : Marlayne Giron (October 13, 2023)
Language : English
Paperback : 318 pages
ISBN-13 : 979-8218953775
Item Weight : 13 ounces
Dimensions : 5.25 x 0.8 x 8 inches
Rachel Winston is suddenly and tragically widowed in her early 30s. She and her adopted, teenaged daughter, Karen, are forced to leave everything behind in Southern California. She purchases an Amish farmhouse in Lancaster County, PA to open an Amish-style Bed & Breakfast Inn. The farmhouse she purchases was put on the market by a young Amish widower, Samuel Miller, who recently lost his wife and five children in a buggy accident. He has moved into the Dawdi house to maintain the farm and Rachel happily cooks, cleans, and does his laundry in exchange for his help.
Thrown together by tragic loss, their mutual suffering draws them together against the rules of his community. Solace and friendship soon turn into something deeper, putting him at great risk for shunning. Rachel struggles to adapt while her daughter finds it easier to fit in to the Amish lifestyle.
About the Author
Marlayne Giron is a wife and mother living in Orange County, California. She currently works full time and enjoys cooking for her family every night, scrapbooking, making high teas, and entertaining. She is also the author of Make a Wish, In Plain Sight and The Victor Companion Lesson Plan.
I also have a blog about my experience with breast cancer (no disturbing photos but plenty of humor). My blog is: https://mmgiron.wixsite.com/website
The Flower Quilter by amazing storyteller Mindy Steele is Book One in her The Heart of the Amish series. This is a contemporary Christian Amish romance. Within the first few pages I was interested in the delightful story.
This is the tale of Barbara Schwartz, a Kentucky Amish woman, who travels to Shipshewana, Indiana to help her grandparents for the summer. There she meets Melvin Bontrager, an Amish man with a landscaping business. Life is much different in this Amish tourist community.
Barbara is the only one in her family that is at a loss with a needle and thread. She has a plethora of other talents, including a caring heart. Melvin comes with some past baggage. He carries guilt that is misplaced. As the two begin working together, they both start to open up more.
The author did a great job crafting her characters, right down to some unruly children. I loved the humor and twists that were included. The story was well done and had me turning page after page until I had read the book in one sitting.
I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful story. It was full of entertainment, life lessons, as well as spiritual ones. The author taught me some things about the different Amish communities. I highly recommend it. It gets a five out of five star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: The Flower Quilter
Author: Mindy Steele
Genre: Amish/Christian Fiction
Release Date: September, 2023
Barbara Breaks from Amish Tradition to Express Her Artistry
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this new series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
Barbara Schwartz was born into a family of quilters, but she would rather eat dirt than partake in another quilting frolic or sew on another binding. When her parents send her to Indiana to help her grandmother in her quilting shop, she finds herself amongst a very different community. It’s only one summer and then she will be back in Kentucky where she belongs.
Melvin Bontrager’s world stopped six years ago when his parents died. Now when his only means of providing for his widowed sister and niece is threatened, Melvin finds his landscaping business disappearing too. When spring delivers a newcomer who is immune to his salty moods, Melvin does something he has never done before, accepts help.
What blooms is the last thing Barbara ever expected, and everything Melvin could ever want.Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Mindy Steele is the award-winning author and bestselling author of over a dozen novels and novellas in Christian fiction. Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele has been writing since she could hold a crayon on the wall and lives in northeastern Kentucky—where many of her stories are set.
More from Mindy
The Story Behind the Story
I’ve connected with many wonderful readers since my debut in 2021 and while attending my first multi-author and reader event in Shipshewana, Indiana, I was blessed to finally meet many of them in person. I connected with my amazing assistant, my Mississippi fishing buddy, and the golden girls who have been with me from the beginning. God handpicked each of these women and I am so thankful he did.
I knew before leaving home I would not be writing about Shipshewana or the touristy areas considering I love our small rural communities, but you know what they say about thinking you know everything. . .
I was charmed at a little Bed and Breakfast and further charmed by Bridgett the owner. After touring the Amish Market and a few other memorable sites, my husband and I spent an afternoon with our dear friends Barb and Mel. Barb insisted I see her favorite place, the Krider Fair Gardens. Being a lover of flowers and gardening myself, I was entranced. I walked over every inch and stored its details in my heart. I even called my mother.
I quickly learned the quilt gardens were signature in Indiana, sprawling along the Pumkinvine Trail and covering multiple counties. From May to September, thousands come to photograph the designs that change each year. There is even an app for that now.
I had learned so much about Amish gardens and greenhouses from my neighbors who had family-owned greenhouses which I wrote about in An Amish Flower Farm.
It was also a no brainer that I would include quilting into the story. I love to quilt, much more than my dear sweet heroine needless to say.
I was especially happy to include the quilt shop, just a block down from The Blue Gate and the owner was thrilled her shop was the inspiration to Anna Beechy’s quilt shop.
Writing about two different Amish communities was a fun challenge made easy thanks to dear friends from both. Especially Anna Mae, the best garden tea maker north of Ohio who never let my questions bother her.
What was most memorable about writing this book over all others?
I had no desk!!!
I love writing about new things not explored yet, and well…my writer heart was ready to start before we even got home. Often, I let an idea percolate a few days, but this story unfolded like a favorite re-run and I knew all the words. It was time to get writing, but suddenly we had covid and hours turned to days and weeks. It was a scary time as my husband struggled with it terribly, but we got through and then Hurricane Ida struck the south and my husband was called up. I decided to travel with my husband and son to deliver Fema Relief.
My family needed me, and I needed to write this book!!! So, in pure Mindy fashion, I packed up my notepads, extra fine tip pens, and did both.
The draft of The Flower Quilter was written in the back of an old semi that leaked like a strainer as we delivered trailers and supplies from Kentucky to the hardest hit areas of Mississippi and Louisiana nonstop for nine days.
I hope to never try that again, but no matter what we encountered, those gardens of Indiana, keep popping up and adding a little sunshine to the chaos around me. God sure knows how to keep beauty in focus when everything gets turned upside down. He also knows how to take our worst traits and turn them into something remarkable.
I hope you love this story and my take on the gardens as much as I did. Thank you for being part of the tour!!! And may God bless and keep you!
She’erah’s Legacy is Book Three in the Yahweh’s Legacy Series by Naomi Craig. She is an extremely talented wordsmith. This Biblical Fiction is quite simply amazing. Do not be concerned if you have not read the first two books in the series, except for the fact they are phenomenal. This book may easily be read as a stand-alone.
This is a fictional Biblical account of She’erah, the granddaughter of Joseph. She is only mentioned once in scripture in 1 Chronicles 7:24: “He had a daughter named She’erah. She built the towns of Lower and Upper Beth-horon and Uzzen-sheerah.” He being Ephraim, Joseph’s son. I was curious and looked it up in my Bible. This was something that I did not see when reading the genealogy, but I am thrilled the author picked it up. Her perspective on this phenomenal woman’s story is plausible and brought the people and situations vividly to life with her deft pen.
The characters are all expertly crafted which made it easy to imagine them. The author’s research and work that she put into writing this entertaining, educational, and inspiring story were apparent. I was immediately invested in the story and felt transported to that time and place in the Old Testament. Scripture is beautifully woven throughout this captivating novel.
There are lessons throughout the story on trusting God, forgiveness, jealousy, faith, family, friendship, and love. It would be nice to see this made into a movie. More people would know about this granddaughter of Joseph and her abilities.
I highly recommend this riveting tale. It was a page-turner that held surprises. I gleaned a lot of biblical information as I kept my Bible next to me as I read the book. This would make a great book club selection. There is so much to discuss! It receives a well deserved five star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: She’erah’s Legacy
Author: Naomi Craig
Genre: Historical fiction, Biblical fiction
Release Date: August 15, 2023
As tragedy ravages the camp, can She’erah step up and complete the outpost?
She’erahs is a woman trying to leave her mark in a man’s world. Her vision and ability surpasses her father’s, yet she remains second-in-command as they are tasked to build Pharaoh’s outposts in Canaan. She knows she is worthy of the task, but her clan is skeptical
The last place She’erah expects support is from her charioteer, but Lateef is the lone voice of encouragement. His integrity and steadfastness is a plumb-line in She’erah’s life and she can no longer deny her growing feelings for him.
Acts of sabotage threaten the construction and the shaky foundation of She’erah’s pride. It’s up to She’erah to break generations of rivalry, distrust, and jealousy—if she can learn to rely on the strengths and abilities of those around her to help.
Will she learn to trust God and others before her life’s legacy comes crumbling down around her?Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Author of Biblical fiction, avid reader, pastor’s wife, Naomi loves reading the Bible and imagining how things were at the time. When she’s not serving in various areas at church, trying to stay on top of mountains of dishes or convincing her rescue dog, Freeway, to be cute on command for Instagram reels, you’ll most likely find her enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee. Naomi co-hosts #BehindTheStory with Naomi and Lisa, an author interview show on YouTube and your podcast platform of choice.
More from Naomi
A woman architect in ancient times?
She’erah’s family is mentioned in five verses in 1 Chronicles 7:20- 24. In this brief detour from the list of genealogy, we learn some interesting facts.
She’erah is the granddaughter of Joseph (yes that Joseph with the coat of many colors, vizier to Pharaoh)
Two of her brothers get themselves killed for cattle rustling.
Her father, Ephraim, goes into deep mourning for his sons.
There is a late-in-life baby (as a result of dad’s mourning)
and She’erah built Lower and Upper Beth Horon and Uzzen She’erah.
Then we are right back to the begats.
Wait, hold on. That’s all we get? What is the story behind her building these towns (two of which are still standing today)? What was the reaction of those around her?
Something I find helpful to remember is that when you know about someone’s family, you in a way know the person. With her grandfather being Joseph, suddenly we have opened a whole new world of what we know. She’erah and the clan would have had access to all of Egypt’s knowledge and resources. Where she still might have gotten backlash from her more Hebrew clan, Egyptian women had more independence, managing their husband’s estates, or even their own.
We also know the generational legacy that was passed down of the younger sibling being favored above the older. Ephraim over Manasseh, Joseph over his ten elder brothers, Jacob over Esau, Rachel over Leah, Isaac over Ishmael. I’m sure sibling rivalry could have been present.
So now we can see She’erah’s picture a little more clearly. A brilliantly minded woman determined to prove herself and her abilities. Raised in Egyptian courts, yet also Hebrew. A strange mix of cultures and dynamics that shape She’erah and nurture her gifts.
She’erah’s legacy is not only the towns she builds for generations to come, but also how she starts the work of unearthing the deep-seated rivalry that is entrenched in her family.
I pray you’ll enjoy She’erah’s adventures, as she learns to trust the Lord and those around her.
“The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch” by author Kurt Brouwer is Book Two in his Biblical Fiction Series “The Last Disciple.” Set some fifty years after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, this continues the story of the youngest disciple, John, son of Zebedee. If you have not yet read Book One, you should be able to follow the story without issue.
I appreciate well researched Biblical Fiction that coincides with scripture. This one did and added much more. The author’s perspective of what might have been makes sense. His detailed research shows in the descriptive prose of the people, places, and activities of that era. I was able to put more details of understanding to the Bible verses. Yes, I kept my Bible handy while reading the novel to make certain things were aligned.
In the beginning of this book, John is in deep grief over the death of Mary. From the cross, Jesus had told Mary that John would now be her son and she his mother. They lived as such and worked at spreading the teachings of Jesus.
I had a harder time becoming invested in this book than the last one. There are so many details and names that I felt lost at times and needed to reread a section. All in all it is a good novel. There are two more books to come in this series. I am eagerly awaiting them.
This would make a nice Biblical Fiction reading group choice. I found some things I wanted to discuss with fellow readers. It gets a 4 out of 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch
Author: Kurt Brouwer
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Release Date: June 15, 2023
He was the Beloved Disciple… …and he would be the last. The burden to tell the whole story now rests on his shoulders.
He was the Beloved Disciple, chosen by Jesus and destined to be the last to carry the divine message. Devastated by the loss of his adopted mother Mary, John has no time to mourn. The streets of Jerusalem teem with danger, as Roman rulers engage in fierce conflict with Jewish rebels, all vying for control.
While his allegiance lies with his people, John is at odds with the rebels’ passion for earthly power. His quest is to preserve and share the legacy of Jesus.
Will he succeed in spreading the gospel?
Or has he waited too long?
As Jerusalem descends into chaos, John escapes to Antioch. He finds rest, renewal, and purpose among the devoted Christians there and begins sharing his account of the life and teachings of Christ.
Yet even within this refuge, the old conflicts descend on Antioch too, and the dangers ignited in Jerusalem draw near.
Set against a backdrop of actual events, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch is the second novel in a series woven from the Bible and Christian history.
Join John as he embarks on an extraordinary journey, discovering the true essence of faith, love, and divine purpose.
Your heart will embrace The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch because John’s story is the story of our hope and promise.Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Kurt Brouwer is a Christian and a member of a vibrant Christian church in Hawaii. He also loves to write.
A few years back, Kurt did a study at his church on the Apostle John. If you’ve ever been obsessed by anything, you’ll understand that Kurt couldn’t stop researching, digging, diving into the life of John and other first century Christians. The result is a series of Christian historical novels.
The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem was published on Amazon in November 2022. It has been in the top five for Inspirational Religious Fiction and Religious Historical Fiction in 2023.
More from Kurt
Right now I’m living in two worlds: writing and researching the first century world of the early Christians while also tackling the technical demands of self-publishing and online book promotion in the 21st century.
LIVING IN TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS
Writing a book and publishing it have become almost polar opposites, at least for me. Research and writing require a focus on history, places, people, and then the work of creating a written narrative that brings all these to life. With my books, I focus on the first century Biblical world of John, the disciple of Christ. So I have to study, imagine, and then describe the life of first century Christians like John, Timothy, Priscilla and many more.
But publishing has to be done in the modern world of software, online apps, book cover graphic design, and navigating sites like Amazon.com. I actually enjoy this, but I definitely find it frustrating too.
GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR BOOK TWO
For example, I had my book cover designer create a graphic I wanted to use as a part of the book detail page on Amazon. But when I go through the step-by-step instructions on Amazon, I get an error message. Eventually, I’ll figure it out, but there’s a steep learning curve in the publishing and promotion side of writing. Here is the design. It may not be on Amazon yet, but you can see it now.
This is the description for book two:
He was the Beloved Disciple… …and he would be the last. The burden to tell the whole story now rests on his shoulders.
He was the Beloved Disciple, chosen by Jesus and destined to be the last to carry the divine message. Devastated by the loss of his adopted mother Mary, John has no time to mourn. The streets of Jerusalem teem with danger, as Roman rulers engage in fierce conflict with Jewish rebels, all vying for control.
While his allegiance lies with his people, John is at odds with the rebels’ passion for earthly power. His quest is to preserve and share the legacy of Jesus.
Will he succeed in spreading the gospel?
Or has he waited too long?
As Jerusalem descends into chaos, John escapes to Antioch. He finds rest, renewal, and purpose among the devoted Christians there and begins sharing his account of the life and teachings of Christ.
Yet even within this refuge, the old conflicts descend on Antioch too, and the dangers ignited in Jerusalem draw near.
Set against a backdrop of actual events, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch is the second novel in a series woven from the Bible and Christian history.
Join John as he embarks on an extraordinary journey, discovering the true essence of faith, love, and divine purpose.
Your heart will embrace The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch because John’s story is the story of our hope and promise.
But now I’m heading back to what I really love, writing and research. I’m about half way through with the first draft of book three in the series. The title will be, The Last Disciple: Exile to Ephesus.
Path to Grace by talented wordsmith Cheri Swalwell is a Contemporary Women’s Christian novel ripe with life and Christian lessons. This is Book 5 in the author’s The Redemption of Green Pines series. It could be read as a standalone, but the entire series is so amazing, I would encourage the books be read in order.
This is the story of Ariana. She has been the favored daughter and always manages to get her way. When she finds herself in a situation, her father gets irate. This is a new feeling to Ariana, having his anger directed towards her.
Matt is a fledgling Christian, new in his relationship with Christ. He has some past issues he is working on healing. One of those happens to be his mother. Since Ariana reminds him of her, he works to stay away. However, he can see she needs help so he is in a dilemma.
I find myself thinking about this book often even though I have finished it days ago. The author has a way of crafting characters so that they feel real. They are flawed and believable. It took just a few pages to become invested in this book and its group of wonderfully designed characters. There were times that my emotions matched what I read. The father was flat out a bully to his family. Unfortunately, this also happens in real life.
There is so much to love about this thought provoking book. The Christian message is heavily woven throughout the entire novel. Lessons of redemption, hope, forgiveness, grace, and love offer a lot to ponder from this story. I love finding a Christian book and author that blatantly tells about God and His love. Cheri Swalwell is definitely one of those authors and this is one of those books.
I highly recommend this emotionally packed book and series. It would make a lively book club choice. There are so many discussion opportunities. I highly recommend this for lovers of contemporary Christian fiction. It will leave a lasting impression on you. I rate this powerful lifelike story 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Path to Grace
Author: Cheri Swalwell
Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction
Release Date: October 20, 2022
Everyone knows that Ariana does not get rejected.
Used to getting her own way, Ariana grew up having her daddy wrapped around her little finger—and he still is. As an adult, she goes through life expecting that all men will give into her whims. When the one man she sets her sights on won’t give her the time of day, Ariana is truly baffled.
Matt avoids Ariana whenever possible. The young woman has no way of knowing that she reminds Matt of his mother and the heartbreaking memories that he worked hard to bury. If Matt has his way, there won’t ever be a reason to discuss the issue. But when Ariana’s life is turned upside down, and rumors about Matt could destroy everything that he’s worked so hard to achieve, it will take a heavenly amount of grace to prevent history from repeating itself. Will Matt and Ariana accept God’s plan for their lives?
If you like wholesome fiction with a faith-filled message, explore the Path to Grace, the fifth book in the heartwarming Redemption of Green Pines series today. Each book can be read on its own, but they’re best enjoyed when you read them as a full series!Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Cheri Swalwell is a Christ follower who thoroughly enjoys her calling to be a wife, mother, writer, podcaster, and speaker, in that order. Cheri loves to encourage people through her fiction series and many nonfiction books including devotionals, Bible studies, and compilation books. Interested in receiving encouragement 365 days a year right in your inbox? Then the JESUS in the EVERYDAY monthly membership is for you! For a full list of books visit www.cheriswalwell.com. Do you like YouTube? Head to JESUS in the EVERYDAY for 5 to 7 minutes of encouragement weekly.
More from Cheri
Have you ever thought about how different two siblings’ lives could turn out, even though they were raised by the same parents in the same household? Two sisters, one the middle child and one the baby of the family. One always considered “less than,” the other the golden child … until she’s not.
Book 5 in The Redemption of Green Pines series, Path to Grace, shows us what happens when one sister has been favored her whole life, until she falls off the pedestal due to one mistake.
Join the community of Green Pines as life unravels for Ariana. Will her siblings rally around her despite how she treated them her whole life, or will she be left on her own to figure out what to do now?
If you’d like to read the whole story, I’d suggest you start with Book 1, Adventure’s Invitation, but if you’re simply curious about the differences Wynn and Ariana face, I invite you to start with Book 4, Road to Freedom, and get introduced to Wynn and what her life is like living in the same household as Ariana, her baby sister, and Randy, her big brother. I’m pretty sure it’s nothing like you imagined it would be.
The Amish Mother’s Secret, written by author Diane Carver, is a contemporary Amish novel. This is a poignant tale that mingles Amish and English seamlessly. The result is an emotional story that will give you all of the feels. This is Book One in the author’s new Amish Adoption Series.
This is the tale of Lindsay Prescott. Her daughter, Phoebe, has always wanted a bigger dfamily. It has been difficult being raised as an only child of a single mother. However, her mother has a secret that will change Phoebe’s life. Once the secret is revealed it is an emotional roller coaster for the people involved. There will be hurt, anger, excitement, joy, anxiety, and so much more.
I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. It took only a few pages to become invested in this interesting story and its characters. The characters are all well developed and believable. They had a variety of personalities, emotions, and range of faith. I appreciated the Christian message. It was heavily sprinkled throughout the book.
I recommend this story filled with faith, redemption, healing, forgiveness, family, new beginnings, and romance. Do not be concerned if you aren’t a fan of Amish fiction, because you will find so much more. The author reveals personal information after the story. It really tugged at my heartstrings. This would make for some great discussions in a book club. It will stay with you long after you finish it.
This gets a 4 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. These are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: The Amish Mother’s Secret
Author: Diane Craver
Genre: Amish Romance
Release Date: December 22, 2022
Sometimes a beautiful miracle comes to you at exactly the wrong time…
Lindsay Prescott is 40 and single when tragedy strikes. Diagnosed with stage 4, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer, her instinct is to right the wrongs in her life. Her unfortunate childhood with an alcoholic, verbally abusive mother drove her to break free in desperation at the age of 17. While working at a hotel along the beach on the East Coast, she met Harris Manning. He took her breath away and she gave herself to him in love.
Harris’ life was already planned out for him by his wealthy parents. Falling for Lindsay had been a dream. However, compelled to wed the woman his parents chose for him, he’d left her to endure a shaky marriage.
Though Harris never knew it, Lindsay found herself pregnant when he left her with no way to care for identical triplets on her own. When the triplets were five months old, she reconnected with an Amish couple—Katie and Roman Yoder—who were unable to have children. The Yoders adopted Amy and Jenna while Lindsay kept Phoebe. She couldn’t bear to give all three babies away. In the years that followed, Katie worked hard to keep her away from her adopted daughters.
When you let go of a miracle, can you ever capture it again?
After Harris learns his ex-wife intercepted Lindsay’s calls years ago to tell him she was pregnant, he rushes to her side, thrilled to discover he’s a father. But life rarely gives fairytale endings. Revealing the truth may prove more devastating than the hurdles that came before…and all that will surely come after for a woman fighting for her life.Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Diane Craver is the author of The Amish Mother’s Secret, Book 1 in The Amish Adoption Series and two popular Amish series, Dreams of PlainDaughters and TheBishop’s Daughters. Diane also writes romantic suspense, inspirational contemporary romance, historical Christian fiction and women’s fiction. Her emotional reads receive great reviews. Although she started her career writing non-fiction, she switched to writing fiction. She wanted to keep her sanity in the midst of having a large family. Writing fiction with quirky and memorable characters gave her the escape she needed from her noisy household. Diane met her husband Tom while teaching at an orphanage. They enjoy their life in southwestern Ohio, and have been blessed with six children and several grandchildren. Two adult daughters with Down syndrome live with Tom and Diane. Her family is supportive of her writing career, and her favorite vacation is going to the beach with them. She gives thanks daily to God for her wonderful blessings, including being in remission from Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
More from Diane
When I started writing The Amish Mother’s Secret, a friend had been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I decided to have my main character, Lindsay, to have the same type of cancer. I used many of the details of his illness for my character’s cancer. Then an unbelievable thing happened to me. I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I never expected to have cancer with none in my family history.
It was hard telling our children I was diagnosed with stage four cancer. It was stage four because it was found in many of my lymph nodes throughout my body. I rewrote the details in my manuscript so that my character reflected the type of lymphoma I had. Also, after the six months of chemo, I started two years of maintenance therapy. My oncologist said doing this therapy treatment during remission could reduce the risk of recurrence and improve the cure rate for me.
While doing my months of chemo treatments, I received thoughtful gifts, devotional books, two prayer blankets and cards with wonderful Bible verses from friends and relatives. Feeling God’s love through them helped me to get through a difficult time in my life. I appreciated all the prayers said for me to recover from cancer. I have been blessed with an awesome support group of readers.
During this stressful time, I heard from agent Lesley Sabga of The Seymour Agency. She wanted to represent me and told me how much she loved my voice. I hadn’t been looking for an agent so it was a wonderful blessing to sign with Lesley. I had planned on The Amish Mother’s Secret to be a standalone novel, but Lesley acquired a three-book contract for me with Vinspire Publishing. I enjoyed writing about the two mothers, Lindsay and Katie, in Book One, The Amish Mother’s Secret. Both mothers were from two different worlds, but their love never wavered for their children. The second book in my Amish Adoption series, An Unexpected Gift, continues the adoption theme and is also available for purchase. Book three will release next year.
Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows is a collection of Christian historical Christmas novellas by three exceptionally talented authors, Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller. If you have not read any of these three gifted wordsmiths, you are in for a treat when you crack open this book.
Set in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming, these stories have the common theme of marriage of convenience. All three are entertaining and enjoyable. They are different in their writing styles and storylines, but that is one of the things that I liked about this book.
These stories were so well done that I was immediately engaged in all three of them after just a page or two. Characters were well described and relatable. I was able to learn a thing or two from this collection. That is another thing that I love, gleaning new knowledge just from reading for fun. The Christian message was present and the romance a little fast paced.
I highly recommend Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It is a delightful read and will leave you wanting to read more from these amazing storytellers. On a nice note,these are connected to other books by the authors, so you may pick up a book series by each author to continue. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but all opinions are my own.
About the Book
Book: Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows – A Marriage of Convenience Anthology
Authors: Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: September 26, 2023
From bestselling and award winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.
Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.
Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn’t her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn’t cover stranded women, but he can’t leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren’t convenient at all.
Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones’ plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi’s character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.Click here to get your copy!
About the Authors
Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.
USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams is devoted to bringing her readers heartwarming love stories about cowboys and the women that tame them.
Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.
More from Misty
When Friends Join Forces…Magic Happens!
For me, joining with my good friends Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams resulted in Christmas magic!
Ever since I was young, Christmas stories have held a special place in my heart. The charm and warmth they exude, coupled with the enchantment of the holiday season, are a captivating combination I find irresistible. Can you relate?
I’ve also long been a HUGE fan of Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams. I’ve read so many of their books over and over!
Joining them for this Christmas novella collection has been a dream come true for so many reasons. And not only are these three marriage of convenience stories set on the Rocky Mountain frontier (my favorite place!), each of these novellas is an exciting extension of the current series we’re each writing.
Jody’s novella is the finale to her Colorado Cowgirls series. We meet both the hero and heroine of this Christmas story back in book 4. You don’t have to have read Jody’s series to fall in love with them here though!
Lacy’s novella tells the story of a character from a new mail order bride series she has coming soon. This prelude is a fantastic taste that will have you swooning as you eagerly await the rest of the books!
My own contribution features Two Stones, the Coulter family’s best friend from the Brothers of Sapphire Mountain Ranch series. I love having the chance to tell his story, even though he’s not ‘officially’ one of the brothers.
If you’ve read any of these series—or if you just love Christmas books like I do!—you’ll definitely want to read the novellas in Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It’s our collective holiday gift to you, the readers—intertwining familiar settings and characters with the joy and love that the festive season brings. We hope these tales bring you the same warmth and joy we’ve felt while penning them.
Forced to flee for his life, Darwin searches for the Free Mice from Grandfather’s stories. But will they accept a scaredy-mouse like him? Darwin’s journey to find the Free Mice from Grandfather’s stories introduces him to mountain animals who teach him about the King of all Creatures and what bravery really means!
My Review
Darwin Finds Freedom is a delightful Christian children’s book by author NicoleLisa Schrader. It is beautifully illustrated by HC Ward. Children will love the vivid pictures that go along with the story.
This is the story of Darwin, a deer mouse, who happens to be a very scared one, too. His tale of finding freedom from fear and faith in the “King of all Creatures” is exceptionally penned accompanied with the most endearing pictures. Children ages 4-8 are sure to adore this book and glean the priceless message of trusting Jesus over their fears and gaining freedom.
Along his journey, Darwin encounters various animals and birds. Their conversations are quaint and thought provoking for young ones. Kids will easily become engaged with the characters and this wonderful story. I have no doubt with all of the animals it will become one of their favorites.
After the story are some discussion questions. These are followed by photos of each animal or bird that was in the story. Each picture is accompanied by some facts on that real life creature. Children love learning about animals and will delight in this.
There is so much to like about this fabulous book. I enjoyed the story with all of the additional characters. The Christian message was greatly appreciated. It is a wonderful way to plant seeds of faith in the kiddos’ minds. With the questions and facts at the end, it allows for parents to dig deeper with their children during reading time. Plus, the author even asks for suggestions for a sequel.
I highly recommend this book. It would be perfect for a Church to use in junior church, a library, or their Sunday School. This is a great book for any gift need, birthday, Christmas, or just because.
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars – Fantastic Book!
Ireceived a complimentary egalley of this book from the publishers. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Nicole Lisa Schrader loves reading to and writing for children. She is a retired homeschool mother of three and currently lives in central Florida with her husband. Nicole actively encourages mothers of young children online, in homeschool groups, churches, and in her community. For more about Nicole, visit www.nicolelisamaria.com.
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Coming Home to Truth is a Christian historical romance fiction by author Michelle De Bruin. This is the story of Lacy Jones. She has just graduated from high school and yearns for freedom. It is also the story of Conrad Van Drunen. He has spent the last four years raising his children and building furniture. Both are great characters.
I enjoyed the author’s style of writing and was immediately invested in Lacy and her story, Conrad’s, as well. Their characters were well crafted and believable. Most of the others were also likable, but one in particular was rather irritating. The conversations and various situations that happened appeared authentic for early 1900s Iowa. Through the deft pen of author De Bruin, I felt swept away to that time and place.
This book has so many beautiful life lessons to ponder. There is an uplifting inspirational message of trusting God. Sprinkled throughout the book are illustrations of faith, hope, peace, grace and love. The story shows that while family members mean well, they do not always know what is truly best for another member, that people are often put in our lives for a reason by God, and that your first impression is not always correct. Most of all, it maintains that trusting God and keeping your faith is essential.
I recommend this to lovers of Christian historical romance fiction. It has a nice romance and side stories. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars. A complimentary copy was provided from Celebrate Lit, but these opinions are my own.
About the Book
Book: Coming Home to Truth
Author: Michelle De Bruin
Genre: Inspirational Historical Fiction
Release Date: June 20, 2022
In a search for her future, Lacy Jones travels with a friend to a new town where a single dad shows her how to find meaning and lasting success.
Lacy Jones, a graduate of her small high school, knows her whole world is about to change. She dreams of freedom from the struggles with her health, and of the independence that comes with a steady job. When her friend invites her to share the journey to visit the teacher from their country school days, Lacy finally gets the chance to chase her dreams. But when the girls get separated along the way, Lacy is left to make the trip alone. Arriving in a strange town, Lacy is reunited with old friends who introduce her to a new life, new relationships, and a new way of seeing herself.
Conrad Van Drunen has spent the last four years developing his furniture business and raising his two children. He knows they need a mother, but he isn’t ready to talk of remarriage. When Lacy Jones falls across his path, Conrad is forced to make some changes. His brother and sister-in-law offer their assistance from babysitting and financial counsel to matchmaking, but Conrad has other plans. Losing hope of finding what he lost with his first wife, Conrad discovers the mother he’s been seeking for his children in the most unexpected place.
Journey with Lacy and Conrad through trials and joys where deception and the truth can sometimes look an awfully lot alike.Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Michelle De Bruin lives in Iowa with her husband of 25 years and two young adult sons who are college students at Iowa State. She has a bachelor’s degree in religion with a Christian Ministry emphasis, and in Music. Michelle serves as a chaplain for Pella Regional Health Center. She writes inspirational historical romance about people who live in rural communities. Characters that bring to life the delights of farm and small-town living, whispers of Dutch heritage, and Christian faith make Michelle’s stories distinct. A romantic at heart, Michelle is always on the lookout for glimpses of God’s love through the window of a good story. You can learn more about Michelle by visiting her website: michelledebruin.com
More from Michelle
Coming Home to Truth is the second in a trilogy of books set in a small Iowa town during the years 1913 through 1918. This is the second series of books I have written. The Tomorrow series is the first set, and if you’ve already read it, you will recognize characters that appeared in Hope for Tomorrow, Promise for Tomorrow, and Dreaming of Tomorrow.
This book is a delightful story of Conrad, a single dad, and Lacy, a young lady searching for a place to belong. Conrad would like to find a mother for his two school-age children but feels that the risks are just too high. Lacy wants to prove that she can support herself and can use her talents in photography to establish a new career.
In this story, Lacy’s friends see her differently than she sees herself. It causes her to take a second look at her life to decide what is true and what isn’t. This book takes us on a journey with Lacy and Conrad through trials and joys where deception and the truth can sometimes look an awfully lot alike.
Thank you for joining me on this tour. I hope you enjoy the blog posts and enter the drawing for the giveaway. Follow me on social media and subscribe to my newsletter at https://michelledebruin.com/.
Letters from My Sister by author Valerie Fraser Luesse is a three-hundred-and-fifty-two-page paperback. Published by Revell, this historical Christian fiction is poignant with heavy topics of physical abuse, illness, and death. It also includes relationship and family life lessons with a bit of mystery and romance.
Set in Alabama during the twentieth century, this is a touching tale of sisterly love. It is the story of sisters Emily and Callie. These sisters are extremely close to one another. When trials come, they begin to occasionally write letters to each other. In the letters they pour theirs hearts out about the issues they are facing.
The author did a wonderful job crafting the characters in this book. They are endearing and most have baggage that make them seem real. The sisters are Southern girls with a bit of sass. I felt transported to the time and place of the story by the author’s exquisite words. It took only a few pages to become invested in the story and the lives of the sisters. There were different subplots and a few twists that kept me turning pages. In fact, the ending was not expected by this reader.
I loved that their servants/slaves were treated like family and friends. Civil War books or books dealing with the horrors of slavery are difficult for me to read. I hate the injustice of it. This book pulled at my heart and made me shed a few tears.
I recommend this book to historical fiction lovers. For me, I wish it had just a bit more Christian content. This would make a wonderful book club choice. There is so much to discuss! It gets a 4 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest thoughts.
About the Author
Valerie Fraser Luesse is the bestselling author of Missing Isaac, Almost Home, The Key to Everything, and Under the Bayou Moon. She is an award-winning magazine writer best known for her feature stories and essays in Southern Living, where she recently retired as senior travel editor. Specializing in stories about unique pockets of Southern culture, Luesse received the 2009 Writer of the Year award from the Southeast Tourism Society for her editorial section on Hurricane Katrina recovery in Mississippi and Louisiana. A graduate of Auburn University and Baylor University, she lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, Dave.
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 