Flora's Wish by Kathleen Y'Barbo

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Flora's Wish
(Harvest House Publishers - February 1, 2013)

by
Kathleen Y'Barbo

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

RITA and Carol award nominee Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than forty novels, novellas, and young adult books. In all, more than one million copies of her books are currently in print in the US and abroad, and her books have been translated into Dutch, German, and Spanish, to name a few.

Kathleen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She holds a BBA from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and a certification in Paralegal Studies, and is a former member of the Texas Bar Association’s Paralegal Division.

A tenth-generation Texan, Kathleen Y’Barbo has four children of her own as well as seven bonus kids she gladly inherited when she married her own hero in combat boots. Kathleen is proud to be a military wife, even if it did mean giving up her Texas drivers license.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

May 1887--Flora Brimm is determined the fifth time is the charm. Back home she has a reputation as "Fatal Flora," a woman whose previous four fiancés died in untimely accidents. Flora is desperate to marry, because producing an heir is the only way she can keep her family's estate. She's confident this visit to Eureka Springs with her grandmother will help her land a husband.

Pinkerton detective Lucas McMinn is hot on the trail of Will Tucker, the thief who broke his sister's heart. When he discovers the slippery fellow with Flora, he thinks they are in on the devious plot together. Will Flora be able to convince Lucas of her innocence? Will Lucas catch the elusive Mr. Tucker?


And, more importantly, will Lucas survive if he pursues Flora's heart?

MY THOUGHTS:

Desperation can make even the most level-headed person do reckless things. Flora Brimm, unlucky in love, must produce an heir or she cannot lay claim to her family's estate. Unfortunately her reputation precedes her and repels most gentlemen from wanting to keep company with her let alone marry her. A chance meeting with Will Tucker changes things and she and Will make "arrangements" to wed. However, Will Tucker may not be all he seems to be and Detective Lucas McMinn is hot on his trail, but what an adventure awaits him in his pursuit. Hold on to your seats and your funny bone as this entertaining story takes you for a ride. Kathleen Y'Barbo is a great storyteller and fans of humor and romance will not want to let this book pass them by.

My thanks to CFBA and Harvest House Publishers for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Flora's Wish, go HERE.

For Love of Eli by Loree Lough

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
For Love of Eli
(Abingdon Press - February 1, 2013)
by
Loree Lough

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

With more than FOUR MILLION copies of her books in circulation, Loree has 98 books (fiction and non-fiction for kids and adults; four novels optioned for movies; more books slated for release between now and 2014), 68 short stories, over 2,500+ articles in print, and over 19,000 letters from fans!


Loree loves sharing learned-the-hard-way lessons about the craft and the industry, and her comedic approach makes her a favorite (and frequent) guest of writers' organizations, book clubs, private and government institutions, college and high school writing programs both here and abroad.


A writer who believes in "giving back," Loree dedicates a portion of her income to Soldiers' Angels, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, and other worthwhile organizations.


She splits her time between a tiny home in the Baltimore suburbs and an even tinier cabin in the Allegheny Mountains, and shares both with her real-life hero Larry, who rarely complains, even when she adds yet another item to her vast collection of "wolf stuff."

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When unspeakable tragedy leaves young Eli an orphan, two families are devastated. But Taylor, Eli’s aunt and legal guardian, vows to help him remember his parents by creating a Memory Quilt. As she begins piecing together the moments of his parents' lives, the story of the young family emerges and Taylor and Eli begin to heal. But Eli’s uncle Reece is slow to let go of the past and still blames Taylor’s brother for his sister’s death. So, although he has long been attracted to Taylor, Reece keeps a safe distance away. Can their shared love for Eli pave the way to forgiveness or will Taylor and Reece be separated by pain?

If you would like to read a first chapter excerpt of For Love of Eli, go HERE.

Daybreak by Shelley Shepard Gray

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Daybreak
(Avon Inspire; Original edition - February 12, 2013)

by
Shelley Shepard Gray
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Since 2000, Shelley Sabga has sold over thirty novels to numerous publishers, including HarperCollins, Harlequin, Abingdon Press, and Avon Inspire. She has been interviewed by NPR, and her books have been highlighted in numerous publications, including USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.

Under the name Shelley Shepard Gray, Shelley writes Amish romances for HarperCollins’ inspirational line, Avon Inspire. Her recent novel, The Protector, the final book in her “Families of Honor” series, hit the New York Times List, and her previous novel in the same series, The Survivor, appeared on the USA Today bestseller list. Shelley has won the prestigious Holt Medallion for her books, Forgiven and Grace, and her novels have been chosen as Alternate Selections for the Doubleday/Literary Guild Book Club. Her first novel with Avon Inspire, Hidden, was an Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. She now lives in southern Ohio and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two children in college, and is an active member of her church. She serves on committees, volunteers in the church office, and currently leads a Bible study group, and she looks forward to the opportunity to continue to write novels that showcase her Christian ideals.

When she’s not writing, Shelley often attends conferences and reader retreats in order to give workshops and publicize her work. She’s attended RWA’s national conference six times, the ACFW conference and Romantic Times Magazine’s annual conference as well as traveled to New Jersey, Birmingham, and Tennessee to attend local conferences.

Check out Shelley's Facebook Fan page.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When Viola Keim starts working at a nearby Mennonite retirement home, she strikes up an unlikely friendship with resident Atle, whose only living relative, son Edward, is living as a missionary in Nicaragua. Viola understands the importance of mission work, but she can’t imagine leaving her father in the hands of strangers. Even though her family is New Order Amish, it’s not the Amish way, and though she doesn’t know Ed, she judges him for abandoning his father.

But when Ed surprises his father with a visit, Viola and Ed both discover an attraction they never expected. Despite her feelings, choosing Ed would mean moving to a far-off country and leaving her family behind. She can’t do that. Her twin sister, Elsie, is going blind and will need someone to care for her all her life. Her family is reeling with the recent discovery that her grandmother hid her past as an Englischer. Her father seems forgetful and distracted—and to be harboring some secrets of his own.

Does Viola dare leave them all behind and forge her own life? Or will family ties mean her one chance at love slips away?

MY THOUGHTS:

Shelley Shepard Gray is one of my favorite Amish authors, and with just cause. I love how her stories are intermingled with drama, romance, and even a touch of humor. She fills her books with engaging characters, multiple subplots, and scenarios that will keep you turning pages into the wee hours. Daybreak is a great start to this series and I am anxiously awaiting Ray of Light, due out in May, to see what else she has in store for the Keim family.

My thanks to CFBA and Avon Inspire for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read a first Chapter excerpt from Daybreak,go HERE.

Redeeming Grace by Ward Tanneberg

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Redeeming Grace
(Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas; 1st edition - February 28, 2013)

by
Ward Tanneberg

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ward Tanneberg is a pastor/writer/novelist who has given more than 50 years to evangelism, youth, college and pastoral ministry, including two Pacific Northwest churches and 23 years as the senior pastor at Valley Christian Center in Dublin, CA. In 2008, he was named President/Executive Director of The CASA Network. Ward speaks extensively at 50+ retreats and ministry leadership events in the USA and elsewhere. When at home he meets weekly with a group of business and professional leaders. He and Dixie have 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren and a great grandson.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Seven years ago, Grace Grafton died in a boating accident while partying on the Georgia, South Carolina coast. Was her death the result of alcohol and drugs or something more sinister? Nobody knows: her body was never recovered. Now years later, a woman reads in disbelief the note addressed to her: Hello Grace, did you think we wouldn't find you?

Those nine chilling words end Grafton's self-imposed sanctuary of witness protection. Now she and everyone she loves are in grave danger. Long believed dead, she has a secret that can change the world. She knows the man running for president is guilty of a double murder! But who will believe her?

MY THOUGHTS:

This is quite a lengthy book, and unfortunately I haven't finished it in time to give a full review, but I will say what I've read so far is very good. Plenty of intrigue, a touch of romance (hoping to see a bit more of that in the rest of the book), and it's a page turner. There were a couple of things that did seem to be a bit unbelieveable plot wise, but it's not anything that is a detriment to the story. In a way Mr. Tanneberg's writing reminds me of Steven James...with a multi-layered plot steeped in suspense with a bit of violence that touches on edgy. I'm really looking forward to see how this one ends!

My thanks to CFBA and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Redeeming Grace, go HERE.

Unbreakable by Nancy Mehl

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Unbreakable
(Bethany House Publishers - February 1, 2013)

by
Nancy Mehl
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Mennonite Romantic Suspense Sure to Thrill Readers

Gentle and unassuming Hope Kauffman has never been one to question or try to make changes. She quietly helps her father run Kingdom Quilts and has agreed to the betrothal her father arranged for her with the devout but shy Ebbie Miller.

Despite Hope's and other Kingdom residents' attempts to maintain the status quo, changes have already begun to stir in the small Mennonite town. The handsome and charismatic Jonathon Wiese is the leader of the move to reform, and when one of Kingdom's own is threatened by a mysterious outsider, Jonathon is one of the first to push for the town to arm itself. Hope's fiance, Ebbie, is at the forefront of those demanding the town stay true to its traditions of nonviolence.

When strange incidents around town result in outright attacks on several townspeople, Hope can't help but question what she's always been taught. As the town that's always stood so strong together is torn apart at the seams, Hope is caught between opposing sides, both represented by those she has come to care for. With tensions high and lives endangered by an unknown threat, Hope fears Kingdom can never survive in one piece.

MY THOUGHTS:

In the midst of trouble and confusion, is it possible to hold steady and be unbreakable in holding on to your convictions?

This book answers that question for the small Mennonite community of Kingdom, Kansas. As the residents of the town are struggling to determine a course of action as crime and violence is being perpetrated against it's citizens, Hope Kauffman herself struggles to determine which of two men who have feelings for her is God's choice. Throughout the book she examines the character and beliefs of the two men in an effort to determine which is the right man.

I enjoyed this book as much as I did the first book in the series (Inescapable), and was pleased to get to know a number of the characters better this time around. A nice balance of intrigue and romance kept me turning pages to find out who was wreaking havoc against Kingdom and the townspeople. While I had figured out which man she would choose before the ending, I loved the scene where her choice is revealed.

If you like a storyline of romance with the twists and turns of suspense or even just stories portraying life among the Mennonite people, then be sure to read this book. It's well worth the read.

My thanks to CFBA and Bethany House Publishers for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Unbreakable, go HERE.

Ashton Park by Murray Pura

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Ashton Park
(Harvest House Publishers - January 1, 2013)
by
Murray Pura

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Murray Pura was born and raised in Manitoba, just north of Minnesota and the Dakotas. He has published several novels and short story collections in Canada, and has been short-listed for a number of awards. His first books to be published in the United States are the inspirational works Rooted and Streams (both by Zondervan in 2010). His first novel to debut in the USA is A Bride’s Flight from Virginia City, Montana (Barbour), which was released January 2012. The second, The Wings of Morning, will be published by Harvest House on February 1. Both of these novels center around the Amish of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

For fans of the hugely popular Downton Abbey series, comes this equally enthralling story of the Danforth family of Ashton Park.
Among the green hills and trees of Lancashire, only a few miles from the sea, lies the beautiful and ancient estate of Ashton Park.
The year is 1916. The First World War has engulfed Europe and Sir William's and Lady Elizabeth's three sons are all in uniform--and their four daughters are involved in various pursuits of the heart and soul.

As the head of a strong Church of England family for generations, Sir William insists the Danforth estate hold morning devotions that include both family and staff. However, he is also an MP and away at Westminster in London whenever Parliament is sitting. During his long absences, Lady Elizabeth discreetly spends time in the company of the head cook of the manor, Mrs. Longstaff, who is her best friend and confidante. This friendship includes visits to a small Baptist church in Liverpool that exposes Lady Elizabeth to a less formal approach to Christian worship and preaching than she is used to and which she comes to enjoy.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is the first of Murray Pura's books that I've read and I have to say I was quite impressed.

Angst and turmoil surround the Danforth's and not just in matters of love and loyalty. Timing this novel through a time of global crisis added another dimension to this engaging story. Add in the relationships of the Danforth children, with a number of them finding love outside the spectrum of the noble class, as well as a gentlemen's duel, and the drama of being a wanted man make for a dramatic and satisfying read.

I've not seen Downton Abbey, so I can't vouch for any similarities there, but I will say if you enjoy a book primarily set in the British Isles during a time of war, with drama and romance and unexpected twists, then this is a book you'll want to pick up. I was hooked from the very beginning and didn't want it to end. I'll be looking for book two, Beneath the Dover Sky, coming in August 2013.

My thanks to CFBA and Harvest House for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read th first chapter of Ashton Park, go HERE.

Grace Given by Beth Shriver

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Grace Given
(Realms - January 8, 2013)
by
Beth Shriver

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Childhood memories of her grandfather's ranch came alive as Beth wrote her first Amish story. Her parents grew up in the country, so she appreciates pastoral life and respects those who make a living off the land. She visits a nearby Amish community just south of Fort-Worth for an occasional church service or brunch with the bishop and his wife. And on the way home she stops at the community store to get some plum jam!

Beth received a degree in social work and psychology from the University of Nebraska. She worked as a caseworker for Boulder County Department of Social Services before starting a family. Beth and her husband, two children, along with two cats and a beagle live in Texas after moving from their first home in Colorado. She freelances for the local papers in her area and writes columns, devotionals for magazines, and novels in a variety of genres in both fiction and nonfiction. Beth is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Literary Agency.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

“Never doubt in the darkness what God has shown you in the light.” —Amish Proverb

Elsie Kline can’t forgive her sister for leaving the community. Gideon Lapp helps Elsie through her bitterness by studying the Martyr’s Mirror book that is centuries old, describing their ancestors’ sacrifice for their faith. But he feels there is something more. When the community moved to Texas, they were not welcomed by some of the locals. They have told Katie and Elsie that harm will come to their community if don’t go back up north where they came from. Gideon stays by Elsie’s side as she learns to give grace and to humble herself to accept grace as well.

“Beth has a heart for helping others, whether through her nonfiction and fiction writing or in other capacities. It has been my pleasure to read and respond to her work during the past few years of knowing her.” —Leanna Ellis, Author of Facelift and Forsaken and winner of the National Readers Choice Award.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Grace Given, go HERE.

Mystery of the Heart by Jillian Kent

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Mystery of the Heart
(Realms - January 8, 2013)
by
Jillian Kent
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jillian Kent is a busy writer and the alter ego of Jill Nutter, a full-time counselor.

Jill spent the first semester of her senior year of college at Oxford studying British Literature, where she fell in love with England. During this season, she came to appreciate the written word, the rich imagery of romantic poetry like The Highwayman, and historical novels of many types, including Jane Austen and all things Regency.

Jill received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Bethany College in West Virginia, and her Masters Degree in Social Work from WVU, and she brings her fascination with different cultures and societies into her writing.

Jill has always been a romantic at heart, so readers will find a good dose of romance woven through each of her novels. Jill, her husband Randy, and children Katie and Meghan are animal lovers. They currently own two dogs, Boo-Boo and Bandit and a menagerie of cats, Lucky, Yuma, Snow, and Holden. Critters of all assortments make their appearance in her stories.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Lord Eden is intrigued when he discovers Lady Mercy Grayson’s secret, but how can he hope to gain her heart when he is forced to betray her?

Lady Mercy Grayson longs be a physician like her big brother, Devlin, Lord Ravensmoore. However, society would never tolerate a female physician, let alone one who is a noblewoman. So Mercy takes matters into her own hands, disguising herself as a man to get through medical school. But then a male colleague discovers her secret, which is only the beginning of Mercy’s problems that could destroy her dreams forever.

The Prince Regent is awaiting the return of Vincent St. Lyons, Lord Eden, whom he sent on a secret voyage to locate and bring back a relic that some believe possesses the power to heal. St. Lyons discovers Mercy washed up on England’s shore upon his return and agrees to give her safe passage to London aboard a ship of men practicing African Vodun. Both must face treacherous circumstances, difficult decisions, and a growing attraction to one another that could forever change the course of their lives.

As the final installment in the series, the theme of this book is God’s plans for our lives. “Whatever the hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might” (Eccles. 9:10).

If you would like to read the first chapter of Mystery of the Heart, go HERE.

Path of Freedom by Jennifer Hudson Taylor

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Path of Freedom
(Abingdon Press - January 2013)

by
Jennifer Hudson Taylor
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jennifer Hudson Taylor is an award winning author of historical Christian fiction set in Europe and the Carolinas and a speaker on topics of faith, writing and publishing. Her debut novel, Highland Blessings, won the 2011 Holt Medallion award for Best First Book. Jennifer's work has appeared in national publications, such as Guideposts, Heritage Quest Magazine, Romantic Times Book Reviews, and The Military Trader. She serves as the in-house Publicist at Hartline Literary Agency and co-owns Upon the Rock Publicist. Jennifer graduated from Elon University with a B.A. in Communications. When she isn't writing, she enjoys spending time with family, long walks, traveling, touring historical sites, hanging out at bookstores with coffee shops, genealogy, and reading.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

2nd in the Quilts of Love series

When Quakers Flora Saferight and Bruce Millikan embark on the Underground Railroad, they agree to put their differences aside to save the lives of a pregnant slave couple. With only her mother’s quilt as a secret guide, the foursome follows the stitches through unknown treachery.

As they embark on their perilous journey, they hope and pray that their path is one of promise where love sustains them, courage builds faith, and forgiveness leads to freedom.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Path of Freedom, go HERE.

Watch the book trailer:

Doctor to the Rescue by Cheryl Wyatt

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Doctor To The Rescue
(Love Inspired - December 18, 2012)

by
Cheryl Wyatt
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Born Valentine’s Day on a Navy base, Cheryl Wyatt writes military romance. Her Steeple Hill debuts earned RT Top Picks plus #1 and #4 on eHarlequin's Top 10 Most-Blogged-About-Books, lists including NYT Bestsellers. Cheryl loves interacting with her readers and can be found almost daily on Facebook.

Word from the Author:
I do regular giveaways including a Kindle for every 250 people who join (aka "Like") my Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/CherylWyattAuthor and I'd LOVE for word to spread about that. We have a lot of fun there as I ask for frequent reader input on current books, with helpers being mentioned in the acknowledgments and fun stuff like that.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Combat doctor Ian Shupe returns home from overseas with his most important mission: to raise his little girl. But Ian's a single dad, and working at Eagle Point's trauma center means having to find child care. When bighearted, struggling lodge owner Bri Landis offers babysitting in exchange for construction work, Ian accepts. He vows to keep his emotional distance from Bri, yet can't deny that his daughter is blossoming under her tender care. But is he ready to believe that his heart's deepest prayer may finally be answered?

MY THOUGHTS:

This is the first Cheryl Wyatt book for me and I can say I truly enjoyed it. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters in this book. Bri - trying to recover from an emotionally abusive relationship, Ian - a combat doc with a very busy work schedule trying to fit into another role of single dad, and Tia - Ian's young daughter just trying to find security and assurance with Ian after basically being abandoned by her mother. A lot of secondary characters niggled their way into my heart as well.

Cheryl does a really good job with the character's expressing their emotions. It was heart-wrenching to see that effect that Tia's mother has on her, and the clinginess and defiance attests well to the emotions she was going through. Bri and Ian's hesitance to really let themselves fall in love when you factor in Bri's prior abusive relationship and the traumatic divorce that Ian experiences.

I enjoyed this visit to Eagle Point immensely and plan to go back and read the first story in the series, The Doctor's Devotion, and I look forward to seeing what else Cheryl comes up with in this series.

My thanks to the author for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Doctor To The Rescue, go HERE.

Flight of the Earls by Michael K Reynolds

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Flight of the Earls
(B&H Books - January 1, 2013)

by
Michael Reynolds
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michael K. Reynolds is the writer and producer of Emmy and Telly Award-winning film campaigns and has more than two decades of experience in fiction, journalism, copywriting, and documentary production. He owns Global Studio, a marketing agency, and is also an active leader in church and business, speaking in both ministry and corporate settings. Michael lives with his wife and three children in Reno, Nevada.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

It’s 1846 in Ireland. When her family’s small farm is struck by famine, Clare Hanley and her younger brother, Seamus, set out across the ocean to the Promised Land of America.

Five years prior, Clare’s older sister Margaret and her Uncle Tomas emigrated in similar fashion and were not to be heard from again. But Clare must face her fears as she lands in the coming-of-age city of New York. There she discovers love, adventure, tragedy, and a terrible secret which threatens to destroy her family and all she believes.

Flight of the Earls is the first book in a historical novel trilogy based on Irish immigration in the 1840s.

MY THOUGHTS:

I've not quite finished this book, but I can tell you the story is truly captivating. Review will follow once I finish the book.

My thanks to CFBA and B&H Fiction for providing a copy for review.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Flight of the Earls, go HERE.

A Baker's Dozen (of sorts) ... My Top Picks for 2012

It's hard to believe that 2012 has come and gone, but I have great expectations for 2013. I set a goal for myself at the beginning of 2012 to read 10 books a month and I'm happy to say I met that goal...barely!

I have compiled my "Baker's Dozen" of favorite books for the year and if you feel so inclined, I'd love to know some of your favorites. I have listed the books in no particular order. A couple of authors were fortunate to get two books on my list, but I only included them under a single number in the count.

1. Cottage by the Sea by Robin Jones Gunn

A heart-wrenching tale that gripped my emotions, especially as I see my parents aging.

2. The Key on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson

I enjoyed how this story mingles the lives of women with starkly different circumstances who in many ways aren't that different at all.

3. Relentless Pursuit by Kathy Herman

The whole Secrets of Roux River Bayou series was excellent and is one of the best series I've read for quite some time. I fell in love with these characters and hated to see the series end.

4. His Steadfast Love by Golden Keyes Parsons

I love to read books from the Civil War era and found this book compelling from the very first page.

5. Inescapable by Nancy Mehl

Who can resist a story with "Prince Charming" in it? A serious story with a nice touch of humor in just the right places.

6. The Yellow Packard by Ace Collins

Boy, oh boy, does this car have a story to tell! Put your key in the ignition and let this book take you for a ride. I loved it from start to finish.

7. Accidentally Amish by Olivia Newport

A bit of an out-of-the-box Amish story with story lines set in both historical and contemporary times. I especially enjoyed the historical aspect as my ancestors embarked for America from Rotterdam in the 1700s, just as the Beiler's did.

8. Ashton Park by Murray Pura

I loved the saga of the Danforths of Lancashire as they faced love and war. I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment in this series.

9. A Merry Little Christmas by Anita Higman

I LOVE Christmas books, and I read several over the season. I loved the chemistry between Charlie and Franny, especially at their first meeting.
10. Her Restless Heart and The Heart's Journey by Barbara Cameron

I love the cousins in this series. Each one has her own personality and I enjoy the camaraderie between them. Book 3, Heart in Hand, can't get here fast enough!
11. Gone to Ground and Double Blind by Brandilyn Collins

Both were so compelling that I finished each of them in one day. That's almost unheard of for me.

12. By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer/Queen of the Waves by Janice Thompson

I couldn't let the 100th anniversary of the Titanic sinking go by without reading a few books on the subject. I found both books to be both delightful and heart-wrenching at the same time.

And last but not least, 13 is Teardrop by Travis Thrasher. This short story is part of the 7 Hours series published by Tyndale House. Teardrop was a "keep you on the edge of your seat and confound you with an unexpected ending" kind of story. Loved it!

Have a blessed 2013 everyone...and HAPPY READING!