Fiction Friday: New Releases in Christian Fiction

December 2025 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Children’s/Middle Grade:

Key’s Secret by Jennifer Arrington and Albrey Arrington -- A strange blue envelope greets the kids of Coral Canal right before Labor Day weekend. Inside it contains a riddle and a set of instructions. Nobody, not even their parents, seems to know who sent the riddle, and the children only have five days to solve it and send photographic proof. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:
An Unexpected Texas Reunion by Heidi Main -- After a traumatic experience, Brenna Park hopes that leading a youth summer camp with her emotional support dog, Lulu, will help ease her back into her life. Only, she didn’t expect to be sharing the responsibility with the man she left behind a decade ago. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Not Exactly Mr. Darcy by Carolyn Miller -- What happens when history teacher Olivia Bennett travels to an English village and encounters a surly gardener at the nearby ailing Hartbury Hall? Can she find a way to thaw his heart and restore the Hall's fortunes? (Contemporary Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Gift of Mercy by Rena Bell Yeager -- He’s the new wrangler, with a lot to lose. She’s the boss’s sister, with everything to gain. Will he win her love or lose it all – again? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Christmas Wishes by Carmen Peone -- They are so close… Can Christmas Dreams Come True? With conflicting dreams, and a wedding countdown ticking, can their love survive the season? (Contemporary Romance Novella from Iron Stream Media)

General Contemporary:

Every Voice Heard by Sarah Hanks, N.Y. Dunlap, and D.T. Powell -- Three novellas about Church hurt and abuse. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Historical Romance:

Courting Love: Three-in-One Collection by Jodie Wolfe -- Courting the Love sisters should be easy. With their surname, they should be primed for romance. But the three men tasked with wooing them have their hands full. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

A Christmas to Remember by Penny Zeller -- He's running from his past. She's seeking a better future. Love in Time is a tender love story that reminds us that God's timing is always perfect. (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Love in Time by Penny Zeller -- When Otis MacCallum agrees to deliver much-needed food and medicine to the remote town of Hawthorne, Montana, he knows there's a real possibility he'll again see the woman who broke his heart. Belinda Finnigan had reasons for declining Otis's proposal, but it still hasn't lessened the pain of losing his friendship. When Otis arrives on her doorstep one wintry December day with food and medicine in hand, can two broken hearts be reconciled? Will theirs be a Christmas to remember? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Mine by Sami A. Abrams -- Escaping her past…means risking everything to stop a twisted obsession. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

A Killer in Texas by Jessica R. Patch -- In the search for a murderer, the hunter becomes the prey… While guarding a person of interest in several homicides, bodyguard Libby Winters is attacked by the real serial killer. The Eye, as he’s known, has been stalking her for the past two months, and now he’s ready to make his next move. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, protection specialist Axel Spears vows to keep his partner safe and take down the man who murdered his wife. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense [Harlequin])

Hooked by Stephanie Sanders -- What begins as a family trip to the Outer Banks spirals into fear as a stalker emerges from the shadows, forcing Lexi Martin to face her anxiety, navigate a complicated secret relationship, and find her way back to a faith she's long abandoned. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:

Reyuul’s Redemption by David Liberto -- Joern was once the Scourge of Cordiae—a reyuul whose dark magic was so terrifying that the god, Lohem, forged new weapons to stop him. After 400 years of evil, Joern's now a deformed cleric confessing his sins before the very people he once terrorized. (Speculative Fiction/High Fantasy, Independently Published)

 

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

The Prodigal by L.D. Baldwin -- Frank Martin searches for his estranged son while confronting his own war with God. (Historical Mystery)

Mail-Order Duchess by Misty M. Beller -- A marriage born of duty. A love neither expected. (Historical Romance)

Fields of Shadow and Glory: 1863 by Elizabeth Ann Boyles -- Held captive in the shadows of the American Civil War, Tom, Terry, and Sara must exercise faith and courage if they are ever to arrive at their journey's end. (Historical Romance)

The Basement Angel by LeeAnn Christian -- A desperate man and a curious young girl form an unlikely friendship within the walls of a forbidden basement. (Contemporary Suspense)

The Songbird and the Surveyor by Denise Farnsworth -- A marriage of protection. A past full of pain. In Georgia's wild gold country, love might strike when it's least expected. (Historical Romance)

Charlie’s Trip by David Hollenstein -- He needs to prove his innocence, save his marriage, and definitely wants to find a way back into God's embrace. (Biblical Suspense)

Washington Island Romance Series: Boxed Set by Annette M. Irby -- This set includes Finding Love in Friday Harbor, Washington; Finding Love on Bainbridge Island, Washington; and Finding Love on Whidbey Island, Washington. (Contemporary Romance)

Even in This by Dianna Lanser -- With a chance at first love and a recording contract pending, sixteen-year-old Miah Brennan stands on the riverbank of her future, awaiting permission to jump in. Weeks before 9/11, tragedy strikes in cruel succession, destroying her future and forcing her to make impossible choices. (General Contemporary)

Irish Rose Orphans’ Christmas by Susan G. Mathis -- This heartwarming prequel sets the stage for the upcoming Irish Rose Orphans: A Thousand Islands Gilded Age Series, where seven spirited young women serve the islands’ elite! (General Historical)

A Place to Belong: Josephine’s Story by Heidi Gray McGill -- A wounded Civil War veteran. An unwed mother with nowhere left to turn. In a town full of second chances, will a marriage of convenience become the love story neither dared hope for? (Historical Romance)

Haven for Love by Naomi Musch -- A corporate marketer and camp owner find unexpected connection, while a landscaper and teacher navigate faith and forgiveness. (Contemporary Romance)

Dangerous Shadows by Gail Pallotta -- A horrifying assault, a stalker, and a murdered gambler -- is it possible to put the pieces together in Dangerous Shadows? (Romantic Suspense)

A Thorn in Winter’s Grasp by Davalynn Spencer -- She deceived them. They love her. Is there hope for forgiveness by Christmas? (Contemporary Romance)

Fireman’s Lesson in Love by Mishael Austin Witty -- A burned-out teacher and a smitten firefighter must uncover the truth behind a deadly arson before it destroys their nascent love. (Romantic Suspense)

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Donna Wichelman

 Talkshow Thursday: 

Welcome Back, Donna Wichelman!

I'm pleased to welcome fellow Heroes, Heroines, and History author, Donna Wichelman, back to my blog. I just finished Rhythms of the Heart, Book 2 in the Singing Mine series. A fantastic story. Pull up a chair and get to know Donna.

When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I’ve loved telling stories since my early days in elementary school, when I wrote for the school newspaper. But it wasn’t until high school, when I had the opportunity to attend an international high school and study authors like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, that I knew I wanted to write stories that touched the human spirit. I also traveled in Europe during that time and became fascinated by history and culture, which led me eventually to write primarily historical romance.

How many books have you written? Which one is your favorite?

I have four novels available on Amazon. Two of them are contemporary romantic suspense in my Waldensian Series. The other two are Gilded Age Historical Romances in the Singing Silver Mine Series, A Song of Deliverance, and Rhythms of the Heart. They all have a special place in my heart. But I love the characters in A Song of Deliverance, particularly Ceceilia Richards, a formerly enslaved woman whose wisdom and sense of humor bring joy to everyone in Georgetown. She also plays a strong role in Rhythms of the Heart.

How did publishing your first book change your writing?

When I published Light Out of Darkness, I was surprised people wanted to buy my book and continue to do so. But knowing this inspired me to hone my skills to become a better writer.

How has your book changed since your first draft?

Rhythms of the Heart started as a novella, To Mend a Broken Heart, which I wrote as a free reader magnet. I gave the novella away for less than a month before one of my mentors suggested it had all the right elements of a full-length novel. Amanda Cabot’s advice paved the way for the book to become a reality, and I changed the name to Rhythms of the Heart.

What sort of research did you do for Rhythms of the Heart, and was there an exceptionally interesting tidbit you knew you had to include?

In the story, Cassie’s love interest, Dr. Daniel Criley, leaves Philadelphia because his dead fiancée’s

family blames him for her death. That’s when I discovered that until the Civil War, doctors operated under the miasma theory, dating back to the third century BC. The theory assumed diseases were caused and spread by bad air or noxious vapors released by rotting vegetation, sewage, and the like.

But in the mid-nineteenth century, British doctor Lord Joseph Lister conducted experiments based on Louis Pasteur’s advancements in germ theory. Lister discovered that a compound of carbolic acid used to sterilize surgical instruments and rubbed into patients’ wounds before surgery could significantly reduce his patients’ mortality rates. Though Lister’s antiseptic methods worked, it wasn’t until the 1920s that doctors universally accepted and applied antiseptics before surgical procedures.

If you were to write a spin-off book about one of your secondary characters, which one would you choose and why?

Rhythms of the Heart is a spin-off from Book One, A Song of Deliverance, in the Singing Silver Mine Series. In Book One, the protagonist, Anna Sullivan, must make a life for herself in Georgetown after her uncle dies in a mining accident. In one scene, Anna needs a ball gown for the annual Harvest Ball, and her best friend, Laurel Thomas, supplies her daughter’s gown, which she accidentally packed when they moved from Ohio. In Rhythms of the Heart, Cassie joins her parents in Georgetown after her family died in a train disaster in Ohio.

What books are on your nightstand right now?

The four most recent novels in the queue on my Kindle are Robin Lee Hatcher’s To Reveal a Reckless Love, Melanie Dobson’s Winter Rose, Liz Tolsma’s What I Would Tell You, and Kelly Jo Wilson’s Finding Forevermore.

What is your next project?

Fans of the Singing Silver Mine Series will want to know that I have a third novel in the series, titled Waiting in the Silence, planned for the future. This will also be a spin-off from Book One.

But my current work-in-progress is a World War II Slip-time novel (dual timelines), Power of the Thorn. The historical timeline takes place during Hitler’s reign of evil in the twentieth century, when the main character joins the Resistance to fight against Nazi occupation. The second takes place in the twenty-first century, when the main character battles her own war against a fatal kidney disease, while her pastor husband commits infidelity. Both women will find their way to each other and discover the power of the thorn to rescue and save the lost.

About Donna:
Donna is a 2025 Angel Book Award-winning author for her Historical Romance, A Song of Deliverance, Book One in her Singing Silver Mine Series. Her short stories and articles have appeared in inspirational publications. She has two novels in her contemporary romantic suspense Waldensian Series. Donna and her husband of forty-one years live in Colorado and love spending time with their grandchildren. They bike, kayak, and travel whenever possible.

About Rhythms of the Heart

Can she ever find happiness again after a deadly train disaster ripped away her family forever?

Life as Cassie Munro knew it ended the day her husband and children were torn away in a deadly train disaster. Haunted by her ghosts of the past in Ohio, she takes a teaching position in Georgetown, Colorado, where her parents pastor a church. One thing she knows—she will never risk her heart again. Born of privilege and educated at the Philadelphia School of Medicine, Dr. Daniel Criley never expected to lose the woman he loved to sepsis. Disillusioned with a hospital that won’t integrate antiseptic procedures and blamed by the family for her death, Daniel moves to Georgetown, where he can practice medicine his way. But just when all seems idyllic, the demons of his past appear to destroy the life he’s built.

When Cassie and Daniel meet, their attraction is undeniably intense. Will they risk following their hearts and step into a future together? Or will the fear of loss stand in the way of their happiness? Only God knows how to mend their broken hearts.

Social Media:

Website: http://www.donnawichelman.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DonnaWichelmanAuthor
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/donna.wichelman
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/donna_wichelman
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/donna-wichelman

Photo Credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy Donna Wichelman

Joseph Lister: By Unknown author - Weltrundschau zu Reclams Universum 1902, Public Domain

Dutch Resistance: - Werkgroep Doc. '39-'45 historische kring Dalfsen, CC0.

Wartime Wednesday: Norman Rockwell's Four Freedoms

Wartime Wednesday: 

Norman Rockwell’s Four Freedoms

In his annual State of the Union address nearly a year before the attack at Pearl Harbor, President Franklin Roosevelt asked the American citizens to support the war going on in Europe. During the speech, which became known as the “Four Freedoms Speech,” he said, “In the future days which we seek to make secure, we look forward to a world founded upon four essential human freedoms, some traditional and some new ones: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.”

At the time of the address, artist/illustrator Norman Rockwell was working on a commissioned project for the Ordnance Department of the US Army, a painting of a machine gunner in need of ammunition. After it was completed, the painting was featured on a poster “Let’s Give Him Enough and On Time” that was distributed to munitions factories. Rockwell couldn’t get FDR’s speech out of his mind and wanting to do more for the war effort was determined to illustrate the president’s Four Freedoms.

Rockwell approached the Ordnance Department, but they were not interested because of budgetary

reasons. He then went to the new Office of War Information where he was told “The last war you illustrators did the posters. This war we’re going to use fine artists men, real artists.” Disappointed, he headed back home to Vermont, but on the way, he stopped in New York to meet with The Saturday Evening Post editor, Been Hibbs. It is uncertain if the visit was planned, but it wasn’t unusual given the regular relationship Rockwell had with the Post. He shared his idea with Hibbs who loved it and immediately agreed to use the illustrations, giving Rockwell permission to interrupt his one-cover-a-month assignment.

Given eight weeks to finish the project, Rockwell took seven months to complete the four paintings. He later stated in an interview with New Yorker, that he got a “bad case of stage fright,” and “The job was too big for me. It should have been tackled by Michelangelo.” One source indicated the artist lost ten pounds over the course of the project. Three of the paintings measure 45.75 by 35.5 inches, and Freedom of Worship measures 46.0 by 35.5 inches. The pieces were published in four consecutive weeks during 1943, February 20, February 27, March 6, and March 13, and were accompanied by essays written by Booth Tarkington (Speech), Will Durant (Worship), Carlos Bulosan (Want), and Stephen Vinent Benét (Fear).

The illustrations were met with rousing success, and The Post received millions of requests for reprints that they sold for $0.25 ($4.54 in 2024 dollars). Suddenly, the Office of War Information was interested. President Roosevelt ordered the posters to be translated into foreign languages to be presented to the leaders at the United Nations. By the end of the war, four million posters had been printed!

A tour during the Second War Bond Drive was arranged with the Department of the Treasury that began

April 26, 2943. The 16-city tour started at Hecht’s in Washington, DC and ended in Denver on May 1. Celebrities such as Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Will Durant, and Kate Smith were part of the festivities. Rockwell attending some, but not all of the events during which more than one million people viewed the paintings and purchased $132 million worth of war bonds. Those who gave received a set of prints.

The paintings are on permanent display at the Normal Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts which I was fortunate to visit many years ago. Impressive in print, the painting are quite powerful to see in “real life.”

___________________________

The American World War II Home Front in 29 Objects:

Unlike Europe the American mainland escaped physical devastation during World War II as it was not subjected to full-scale invasions. However, that didn’t mean the United States wasn’t impacted by the war. The ramifications of large economic, cultural, and societal changes forced Americans to reconsider entrenched beliefs and traditions.

Artifacts collected from across the nation tell the stories of the American people whose lives were shaped by this second “war to end all wars,” World War II.

Purchase link: https://books2read.com/u/47pLxR

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Freedoms_(Rockwell)
https://www.mfah.org/blogs/inside-mfah/norman-rockwells-four-freedoms
https://www.nrm.org/2012/10/collections-four-freedoms/
https://rockwellfourfreedoms.org/about-the-exhibit/rockwells-four-freedoms/

Image credits:

By Norman Rockwell - U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, Public Domain.
Freedom of Speech, Norman Rockwell. 1943. ©SEPS: Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.
Freedom of Worship, Norman Rockwell. 1943. ©SEPS: Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.
Freedom from Want, Norman Rockwell. 1943. ©SEPS: Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.
Freedom from Fear, Norman Rockwell. 1943. ©SEPS: Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.

Blog Tour: Sons of Day and Night

About the Book

Book: Sons of Day & Night

Author: Mariposa Aristeo

Genre: YA Fantasy – Retelling of The Prince and the Pauper

Release Date: November 18, 2025

Not even death can tell them apart.

In the wild and lush kingdom of Twinsbane, everyone has a look-alike, and each twin is cursed to die when their double breathes their last. When an ancient plague arises, the kingdom’s only hope is to sever these deadly ties. Yet King Daccias refuses to relinquish the cure, a legendary potion called the Separator.

Waruu, an orphan determined to break these ties, discovers he’s the king’s doppelgänger. He’s certain that if he can switch places, he can save the kingdom. But if anyone learns his true identity, he’ll lose everything—including the people he’s desperately trying to protect.

King Daccias wants nothing more than for his subjects to cease threatening to behead him if he doesn’t hand over the Separator. Intent on catching those opposing him, he finds himself ensnared in his own trap. If he doesn’t break loose, the kingdom will rest in the hands of an insolent boy who knows nothing about the truth behind the events unfolding around him.

To save their kingdom, both Waruu and Daccias must face their greatest enemy—each other.

 Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Mariposa Aristeo is a writer of fantastical adventures filled with heart, humor, hope, and sometimes

dinosaurs. But, most importantly, she’s a creative who seeks to glorify God on every page of her life. Besides writing snarky characters who sass everybody, Mariposa loves bringing stories to life in full color as an illustrator. She also enjoys inspiring other creatives as the Public Relations Director at Story Embers and the Social Media Manager at the Young Writer’s Workshop.

More from Mariposa

How could I refuse to write a retelling of The Prince & the Pauper?

(Kudos to all the zillennial girls who get that reference.)

Ever since I watched the Barbie rendition of this classic tale when I was just a little girl, this story has been on my heart. As I grew older, other more adventurous tales influenced me, such as Dreamwork’s How to Train Your Dragon, Jennifer Nielsen’s The False Prince, Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, and more recently, Star Wars’ The Bad Batch.

But no matter the story, one aspect stayed the same—finding people just like me in the unlikeliest of places.

Growing up, I had a different childhood than most. I was pretty isolated with little to no friends, and not much extended family. It wasn’t until my twenties that I met the people who would later become my true family. They weren’t blood relations, and we didn’t interact in person until years later (yay for internet friends!). We are different in all the best ways but the same in the ways that matter and weird in the way that makes life interesting.

The Prince & the Pauper is a story about many things. Empathy, compassion, and learning what it’s like to live in another person’s shoes. When I set out to write Sons of Day & Night, I wanted to pay homage to this underrated tale while deepening the bond between the two very different (but also very alike) heroes. It’s not just a story about switched identities, it’s a story about the family we find even when our world is falling apart.

When my mom passed away from cancer in 2022, I felt like my world truly was falling to pieces. Besides losing a parent, I also lost what little I had of a normal family. But my found family came together to be there for me and be the family I never had.

We don’t share the same genetics, but they are every bit as much my brothers and sisters. As Stitch once said, “This is my family. I found it all on my own.”

Fast forward a few years, and I now live within 60 miles of my found family and see them almost every week. It’s funny to think how a few internet strangers became such a huge part of my life, but sometimes God sends us family in the places we least expect it.

And my hope is that Sons of Day & Night will remind you that there’s always someone out there just like you.

Interview with Mariposa:

What questions do you ask yourself when preparing to write a new book?

No matter what I write, I always start with one question: What if? For Sons of Day & Night, it was: What if everyone in the world had a double? For another story, it was: What if you were born invisible?

And if you look at many other stories, they too began with what-if questions. What if you were cursed to always tell the truth (Ella Enchanted)? What if man recreated dinosaurs (Jurassic Park)?

And for me, that one what-if question springboards into an entire story, with everything from the characters to the world tying back into that question.

What was the best money you spent as a writer?

Investing in having my own writing mentor! The writing process can sometimes be a lonely occupation, but having someone to come alongside me to encourage me when I was down and answer my one million questions about the publishing process was a literary life-saver. It’s thanks to my wonderful mentor that I had the courage to pitch my story and land a contract with my dream publisher!

How are your characters like you? Different?

Both of my main characters have bits of me in them. Waruu has my deep love of family and Daccias is a hardcore introvert like me. Both of them have suffered losses similar to my own, and many of my own past struggles/feelings went into their stories. But they are also very different from me too! Waruu is a daring little rebel who is way more likely to wind up in jail. Daccias, on the other hand, is 100 times more grumpy and likely to offend the royal court (on purpose).

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

I love dreaming up new worlds and exploring wherever my imagination leads me. Brainstorming is my favorite part of the writing process because it’s where I can explore any possibility and the sky’s the limit. I’m an artist too, so I often sketch my characters to help me form their personalities, which is super fun.

What is one thing you wish you could do?

Oh, I would love to be able to sword fight or learn martial arts! I own a couple lightsabers and it would be so fun to have a real duel. It would also come in handy if I ever need to protect myself from pirates. ;) 

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, November 20

Inspired by Fiction, November 21

The Lofty Pages, November 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 23 (Spotlight)

Wishful Endings, November 24

CeCe Reads and Sings, November 24

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 25 (Author Interview)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 26

Guild Master, November 27 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, November 28

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 29

Simple Harvest Reads, November 30 (Author Interview)

The Mommies Reviews, November 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1

Labor Not in Vain, December 2

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 3 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mariposa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3dc7e/sons-of-day

Fiction Friday: Twenty-Five 5-Star Reads from 2025

Fiction Friday: 

Twenty-Five 5-Star Reads of 2025

In addition to being an author, I’m a voracious reader, and I come by it naturally. Both parents were avid readers with impressive book collections. When my mom passed away, I had to figure out what to do with twelve bookcases full of books! (I might have taken a few of them). Despite being busy, I make time to read, even if it’s only one chapter before bed. The qualities a book must have for me to give it five stars are: I have a serious book hangover when I’m finished, I have no interest in starting another book, I closely related to the characters and can’t get them out of my head days or even weeks later, and I know I will read the book again. And again. And possibly again.

Consider giving one or more of these a try. (Please note the purchase links are affiliate links, and I receive a small commission should you make a purchase.)

Uncharted Mercy by Keely Brooke Keith: A marriage of convenience uncovers secrets that spark a battle for inheritance, family, and a chance at love. https://amzn.to/4oG7zuT

One Night in Beniton Hall by Iris Lim: When an arranged compromise goes awry, whom can Heather

count upon to come to her rescue? https://amzn.to/3LuXna4

Calming the Storm by Melanie D. Snitker: A marriage of convenience isn't exactly what she had in mind. https://amzn.to/4hTUzPN

Palmer Girl by Dawn Klinge: Elizabeth’s heart longs to push against those boundaries, so what’s holding her back? https://amzn.to/3Xog1mk

The Snowman’s Sweetheart by Shanna Hatfield: Will a winter whirlwind romance result in a forever love? https://amzn.to/47uJVLQ

No Leaves in Autum by Terri Wangard: She may gain a family after all. https://amzn.to/3Lt7ZGl

Hopeful Cowboy by Elana Johnson: He's struggling to step into his new role as a single dad. She's trying to keep her ranch operational and her heart intact. Can Nate and Ginger build forever out of heartache? https://books2read.com/u/bzx8KE

A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman: Will Anna’s heart soften towards Stefan? Will Stefan prove himself worthy of Anna’s affections? Each will have to risk everything to attain what they want and need most—love. https://amzn.to/4qOfKXl

Lillian’s Letters by Marlene Bierworth: The magic seemed to be working for the newcomer, until she met the man whom she’d been corresponding with face to face. https://amzn.to/4hTPYwY

Seeking Simon by Susan Sloan: When a mysterious stranger claims to be her fiancé, the fight to save her land turns into a battle for her heart. https://amzn.to/49b54Mm

A Lawman for Lisette by Teresa Slack: Can this independent western woman trust her no-nonsense, rugged lawman and find love? Will her heart forever be lost in Willow Wood? https://amzn.to/4p3ZD6t

Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife by Misty M. Beller: Will the love growing between them be enough to survive Jess's secret and lead them to the justice Gil seeks, or will her father’s greed destroy everything they've risked their lives to protect? https://amzn.to/4oviJCy

Chasing Shadows by Lynn Austin: Three women whose lives are instantly changed when the Nazis

invade the neutral Netherlands, forcing each into a complicated dance of choice and consequence. https://books2read.com/u/baAnz8

Tex by Liz Isaacson: Can Tex and Abigail rekindle their old flame, or will the issue of land ownership come between them? https://amzn.to/496zEGV

The Pastor’s Reckless Bride by Malory Ford: as other needs arise that the two of them are uniquely equipped to meet, their greatest challenge may just be their greatest strength. https://amzn.to/4qM90cR

A Reckoning in Defiance by Heather Blanton: She ruled Tent Town with an iron will. Now, she returns to Defiance with nothing but guilt—and a fragile hope for forgiveness. https://amzn.to/3LuYqqw

Love Somebody Like You by Carolyn Miller: For Lexi Franklin, returning to Trinity Lakes feels a little like running home with her tail between her legs. https://amzn.to/47OsS6j

Love’s True Measure by Lori DeJong: A guilt-ridden woman with everything to gain, a self-made man with everything to lose, and a Father who desires to show them their true measure is more than they could ever imagine. https://amzn.to/4nPlwW6

A Pony Express Romance by Misty M. Beller: Only the fearless ride for the Express. https://amzn.to/4nRiIrF

Journey of the Heart by Johnnie Alexander: One valiant woman. One guarded man. A shared mission—and a love neither expected. https://amzn.to/4p4rrYA

Lance: Gun for Hire by Heather Blanton: He lost everything. Now he has nothing left to lose. https://amzn.to/4owMh2V

Patched Together by Kim Garee: healing leads to new journeys in faith and love amidst changing and

charming seasons. https://books2read.com/u/bPOnQl

A Place to Belong by Heidi Gray McGill: Some fresh starts begin in silence… others begin with a
baby’s cry. https://amzn.to/4ot6XbR

The Red Siren by MaryLu Tyndall: A Woman Pirate desperate to save her family. . .An ambitious Naval Officer longing for a promotion . . .Is their love strong enough to defy the noose? https://amzn.to/4hO34f3

An Unexpected Catch by Abbey Downey: Can she count on the pitcher to save her dream, or will his secret destroy their futures? https://amzn.to/485vjTa

Talkshow Thursday: Meet Karen Ferguson

Talkshow Thursday: 

Meet Karen Ferguson

I'm pleased to welcome author Karen Ferguson to my blog for the first time. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and get to know her.

When did you know you wanted to be an author?

Since I was in elementary school, pouring over my older sister’s daytime drama manuscript. Every day, I would eagerly run home from school to read the newest pages added to her 100+ page volume. It’s one of the things that helped develop a love for reading within me, and ultimately a desire to write. That desire stayed with me into adulthood, although I didn’t do much with it until later in life.

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?

Four books so far. My first was a self-published devotional. I consider that one my “test drive” into publishing. I recently celebrated the third book release in the 7-part Questions for Kids series, which is published through Ambassador International. My favorite so far is Book 3, titled Guess Why God Made the Rainbow. I suppose part of it is the natural progression of growth as an author and in the publishing sphere. But I also did a few things differently this time. I used gentle rhythmic text and onomatopoeia, which makes it fun to read and more lighthearted, even though it’s dealing with a serious subject.

What does your writing space look like?

My space is very humble. Our family transplanted from the Pacific NW to Tennessee several years ago,

and when we did my husband and I downsized to a smaller home (but more land, thankfully). This puts me writing and working at my standing desk in our bedroom. Usually with two fur-babies on the bed beside me.

Tell us about your road to publication.

I’ve written in many forms for more than 20 years, often in the corporate and non-profit sector and wanted to publish for at least ten years before jumping to self-publish a devotional in 2017. Several years later I stepped out in faith to find a traditional publisher. By God’s goodness, I connected with Ambassador International for my children’s book series and recently launched the third book in what will now be the 7-part Questions for Kids series.

How do you come up with story lines?

For my children’s books, I start with prayer, and spend time reading the Bible, then brainstorm a story thread that would prompt another “question” for Lucy that naturally segues into the Bible account I cover in the book. My goal is to find that just right question that connects the Bible account to Lucy’s life, centering on a topic most kids can relate to. My mission is to make the Bible come alive for kids! I want them to see their circumstances through the lens of God’s Word, learning to make real-life connections to the Bible.

What draws you to the time period about which you write?

My love for God’s Word, and my desire to help build biblical literacy in this next generation, through colorful, entertaining, and biblically accurate stories.

Why do you write in your particular genre?

I have a background in K-8 education, and for a long time considered working with children a calling. I was blessed to raise my girls as a stay-at-home mom (mostly), and now find so much joy in spending time with my growing tribe of dearly loved grandchildren. To me, writing children’s books is an extension of what I feel called to: impacting this next generation.

What is your next project?

Book 4 in the Questions for Kids series! This book series follows the Bible chronologically, so this next one will be about a man called away from his family, on a journey to a new land far away. Can you guess what it’s about?

Excerpt: Guess Why God Made the Rainbow

“The boat was built. The animals had come. Now, Noah’s family waited. The people made fun of them because they didn’t believe in God, and they didn’t believe the rain would come. Then one day, it happened! Noah, his wife, his three sons, and their three wives finally saw God’s word come true in the form of cool sprinkles misting their faces. It was what they had been waiting for. Rain! They scrambled to get inside the boat.

Drip-drop. Rat-a-tat. Splatter.

The light rain quickly turned into a violent storm.”

You can get your copy of Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon, or wherever books are sold. 

Amazon: https://amzn.to/47tzcBn

About Karen:

Karen Ferguson is a writer, host of the 5-Minute Parenting podcast, and the author of the Questions for Kids picture book series. A lover of words, family, animals, and Jesus, Karen is a passionate advocate for truth that transforms lives. Her faith in God and background in K-8 education inspires her mission to share God’s unchangeable truths and His unchanging love with the next generation. She wants every child to know their life matters.

You can connect with Karen on social media and sign up for her free newsletter to be the first to know about special events, book updates, freebies and giveaways.

Website: https://www.karenferg.com/
Facebook: illuminatecommunications.org
Instagram: karenfergusonauthor
Newsletter sign up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/n5z4p0

Photo credits:

Author and books images: courtesy of Karen Ferguson

Desktop: Pixabay/Jess Bailey

Children: Pixabay/Alicja

Blog Tour: Gazing into Darkness

About the Book

Book: Gazing into Darkness

Author: Heidi Glick

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: August 12, 2025

Instead of moving closer to his girlfriend, Chance McPherson gets dumped and relocated to Cincinnati—farther from his dreams and closer to his shameful past. Stacey Sanderson is excited to finally secure a role in law enforcement, like the rest of her family, especially as an EPA CID agent, where she can protect God’s creation.

On the job, Stacey’s perfectionism and faith rub Chance the wrong way, while his antics and wisecracks irritate Stacey. When federal employees who worked an old case with Stacey start dying, Chance becomes concerned, and not just because Stacey is his partner. Stacey senses a closeness between them but has vowed not to get involved with men in law enforcement and especially not someone who doesn’t share her faith.

The anniversary of the case is creeping closer. Time is running out. Can Chance and Stacey stop the person who is out to kill her before it’s too late?

 Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Heidi Glick writes romantic suspense and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and

Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Writers. She has an eye for detail and includes law enforcement particulars in her stories, grounding the reader in scenes. She’s attended Writers’ Police Academy and the Hancock County (Ohio) Sheriff Citizen’s Academy to ensure accuracy of story details. Though she grew up in Southern California, Heidi now considers rural Northwest Ohio her home.

More from Heidi

My interest in science probably began at an early age with my love of animals. When I was younger, I rode horses. In high school, I became interested in science and learning more about God’s creation. When I attended college, I majored in biology and became active in Cedarville Christian University’s Earth Stewardship Organization—aimed at promoting stewardship of God’s creation from a Christian perspective. Years later, I worked for a government contractor onsite at the Cincinnati EPA. After a serious conversation with coworkers, I developed an idea for a story involving EPA CID agents. I wanted a story that contained a branch of law enforcement not typically featured in Christian suspense stories. Also, I wanted a series with the same characters throughout, sort of like Castle or Bones. Additionally, I wanted the theme of redemption throughout. While the story involves the environment, the book is not meant to be political. I hope readers enjoy the novel and benefit from the message. Something fun about the book is the artwork. Like the covers for Terri Blackstock’s If I Run series, the covers for Queen City Heroes form one larger image when side by side.

By the way, I still love animals, and my elderly cat Daisy was the inspiration for the heroine’s feline.

Interview with Heidi

Can you share a real-life event that inspired your writing?

I’m trying to think of how to answer this question without giving away anything. I worked in one of the buildings mentioned in the story. An event in the story was inspired by a conversation I had with coworkers.

What was the best money you spent as a writer?

The best money I spent as a writer was joining American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). ACFW provides education, support, and fellowship for Christian writers. I found a critique group through ACFW, and I was able to grow as a writer. I’m still a member and can attribute most of my writing friendships to ACFW.

How are your characters like you? Different?

Stacey is like me in that she likes her veggies. I have my mom to thank for that. I’m different from Stacey in that I don’t work out as much as she does these days because it’s hard when juggling writing and family life. I try to walk daily and swim when possible. Also, Stacey is a neat freak, and I generally have a messier desk like Chance. Also, like Chance, I like chili dogs from a certain restaurant in Cincinnati.

How do you come up with story lines/book topic?

For faith arcs, I’m influenced by what God is teaching me or a nugget of truth gleaned from a recent sermon. For story ideas, I think it depends. With my last book, Hold for Release, I asked readers what they would like to see more of, and they said a married couple. Because I write redemptive themes, I had a married couple whose marriage is in trouble. And then because I write suspense, I had to weave the plot around the characters. How would suspense tie in with a failing marriage? For my next story, Kalamity Cabin, set in the fictional town of Kalamity, Ohio, I have decided to include an ODNR officer. I learned about ODNR at my local citizens sheriff’s academy. Since the release of Gazing into Darkness, I find I like writing about different areas of law enforcement.

What is one thing you wish you could do?

If I could do anything, I would pause time, so I could make more time for all the things in my life. I like writing, but I am also an editor. Plus, I recently started homeschooling my kids. It would be nice to have more time.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 8

Simple Harvest Reads, November 9 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 10

Artistic Nobody, November 11 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, November 11

Texas Book-aholic, November 12

Guild Master, November 13 (Author Interview)

Betti Mace, November 14

Fiction Book Lover, November 15 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 16

Books Less Travelled, November 17 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 18

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 19 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, November 20

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, November 21 (Author Interview)

Alyssa Madjeski, November 21

Giveaway

 To celebrate her tour, Heidi is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3d093/gazing-into-darkness-celebration-tour-giveaway